Wed Oct 16 01:25:10 UTC 2024: ## Sharad Purnima 2024: A Festival of Health and Prosperity
**New Delhi, October 15, 2024:** Sharad Purnima, the festival of the harvest moon, will be celebrated on October 16th, 2024, marking a special day for Hindus. This day, known as the festival of health, is believed to be when the moon is at its fullest, showering the earth with its nectarous rays. It falls after the auspicious Sharad Navratri, further adding to its significance.
The festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm across India. In many regions, it is a time to celebrate the harvest and express gratitude for a bountiful year. A key tradition involves preparing a special sweet rice pudding called “kheer.” It is kept under the moonlight throughout the night, believed to be infused with its nectar, becoming as good as an elixir. This kheer is then consumed, considered beneficial for one’s health.
On Sharad Purnima, devotees offer prayers to Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity, by presenting her with kheer made with cow’s milk and rice. Offerings of yellow or white sweets are also made.
According to the Hindu calendar, the full moon begins on October 16th at 8:40 PM and ends on the 17th at 4:55 PM.
**Rituals for Sharad Purnima:**
* Start the day with a bath and clean your home temple.
* Decorate the altar with a red or yellow cloth and place idols of Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Vishnu.
* Worship Goddess Lakshmi, who is believed to have eight forms, including Dhanalakshmi (wealth), Dhaanayalakshmi (grain), Rajalakshmi (royalty), Vaibhav Lakshmi (opulence), Aishwarya Lakshmi (splendor), Santan Lakshmi (children), Kamalakshmi (lotus), and Vijayalakshmi (victory).
**Disclaimer:** This article provides general information. Please consult a medical professional for any health advice.
First Piper 