Margashirsha Purnima: December 2024 date, rituals, and significance explained

Margashirsha Purnima: December 2024 date, rituals, and significance explained

Mumbai: Margashirsha Purnima holds immense significance in Hinduism. This auspicious day, celebrated during the month of Margashirsha, is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the preserver of the universe. Known as a special day for all deities, it is believed that worshipping Lord Vishnu on this day brings prosperity and happiness to one’s household. Moreover, performing the Tarpan ritual for ancestors on this day is said to grant them liberation and ensure their blessings for the family.

On Margashirsha Purnima, devotees often begin their day with a holy bath, followed by charity, worship, and ancestral offerings. A key part of the observance is offering water to the moon and chanting prayers to honour divine energies. If performed with devotion and in accordance with the prescribed rituals, this practice is believed to pave the way for spiritual growth and overall well-being.

Ritual Guidelines for Margashirsha Purnima

When to Perform the Ritual

In 2024, Margashirsha Purnima begins on December 14 at 5:13 PM and ends on December 15 at 2:35 PM. The fast and Tarpan rituals should ideally be performed on December 15.

Preparing for the Tarpan

Start with a bath, preferably in a sacred river or with holy water like Gangajal. Wear clean, simple clothes.
The space for Tarpan should be clean and sprinkled with Gangajal to enhance its sanctity. Place the photographs of ancestors, light a lamp, and incense sticks to create a sacred environment.

Ingredients for the Ritual

Item
Significance

Water in a Lota

Symbolises purity and offering medium

Rice and Barley

Represent abundance and blessings

Black Sesame Seeds

Aid in ancestral atonement

Kusha Grass

Cleansing and purification

Milk, Curd, Ghee

Offerings for peace and prosperity

White Flowers

Express devotion and gratitude

Performing the Tarpan

Sit facing south with a Lota filled with water, sesame seeds, and sacred ingredients.
Chant the mantra: “Om Pitr Devatayai Namah”
As you chant, pour water slowly from the Lota using your right hand. Repeat this process 11 times.
Offer kheer, puris, and other traditional foods to a burning cow dung cake, symbolising the ancestors’ acceptance of your offerings.

Completing the Ritual

After the Tarpan, divide the food into five portions for deities, cows, dogs, crows, and ants. Feeding these beings is believed to complete the circle of offerings. Finally, feed Brahmins as representatives of your ancestors, offer them clothes and donations, and seek their blessings.

By performing the Tarpan ritual on Margashirsha Purnima with sincerity, devotees can connect deeply with their ancestors, bring peace to their souls, and invite divine blessings for their family’s prosperity.

 Margashirsha Purnima in December 2024 is a day of immense spiritual significance. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, this auspicious day involves fasting, worship, and ancestral rituals to bring prosperity and peace to families.  Spirituality Lifestyle News -Fashion Trends, Beauty Tips, Celebrity Party News, Relationship advice, Travel and Food Tips