Sharad Purnima is celebrated on a full moon day which marks the end of monsoon as per the Hindu lunar month Asvina. It is also known as Kojagari Purnima or Kaumudi (moonlight) celebration, as it is a belief that the Moon rays spread the Amrit (elixir of life) on the Earth. This year Sharad Purnima is on Monday, 6 October 2025
The word ‘Sharad’ focuses on the ‘Sharad Ritu’ (season). Though it is a festival of harvest, it has religious significance for the followers of Vaishnavism as well. It is believed that the individuals who worship Goddess Lakshmi and keep a fast during the day are blessed even if they do not have Lakshmi Yoga in their astrological horoscope.
There is also a scientific reason behind the practice of drinking cold milk on Sharad Purnima. Sharad Ritu brings in scorching hot days and chilled nights. In such a climate, our body gets affected by ‘pitta’ or acidity. As a curative remedy to ‘pitta’, people consume rice flakes and milk.
Importance of Sharad Purnima
This festival is called as Sharad Poonam in Gujarat. This day shows two significant aspects in the farmers’ lives – good harvest and prosperity, and blessings from a supreme power that controls all human accomplishments and ventures.
After completion of Durga puja, this festival bears such importance that almost every family of West Bengal celebrates it. It is celebrated as Kumar Purnima in Orissa. The good-looking son of Lord Shiva, Kumar or Kartikeya was born on this day. Unmarried girls worship Kumar as a prayer to be blessed with handsome husbands.
As per Hindu Astrology, the Moon is said to be the closest to the Earth on Sharad Purnima and is said to have healing powers. This way, the rays of the Moon heal our body and soul on this particular day.
Hindus believe that Lord Krishna began his Raas Leela with Radha and the gopis on the night of Sharad Purnima. Hence, people also play Raas on the night of Sharad Purnima.
What to do on Sharad Purnima
People, especially newly wedded couples, keep fast for the entire day. One who fasts on Sharad Purnima receives blessings for good health, wealth, and happiness.
Ganesha wishes a very Happy Sharad Purnima and fruitful blessings to all.
With Ganesha’s Grace,
GaneshaSpeaks.com