Mumbai: Sharad Purnima, one of the most revered festivals in Hinduism, will be celebrated with great enthusiasm on October 16, 2024. This auspicious occasion falls on the full moon (Purnima) day of the Ashwin month during Shukla Paksha (waxing moon) and is dedicated to the worship of Lord Krishna, Radha, Lord Shiva, and Goddess Parvati. A unique aspect of this day is the veneration of Chandra Dev (the Moon), believed to be imbued with divine nectar (amrit).
According to Hindu beliefs, the rays of the Moon on Sharad Purnima carry a special elixir, and thus, the festival is seen as a time for spiritual rituals, taking holy baths, and performing charitable acts (daan).
Sharad Purnima 2024: Date and Timings
According to the Hindu calendar, the full moon of Ashwin month will begin on October 16, 2024 (Wednesday) at 8:41 PM and conclude on October 17, 2024 (Thursday) at 4:53 PM. However, the primary celebrations, including rituals and offerings, will take place on October 16. Devotees can witness the moonrise at 5:04 PM on this day.
Importance of Donating Rice on Sharad Purnima
The charity holds immense value on Sharad Purnima, with rice being one of the most important items to donate. Devotees believe that offering rice to Goddess Lakshmi on this day pleases her, leading to prosperity and happiness in the household. Rice, a symbol of abundance and wealth, is said to remove obstacles from one’s life when donated on Sharad Purnima. This simple act of charity can invoke the blessings of the goddess and ensure better outcomes in various aspects of life.
Items to Donate on Sharad Purnima
Charity on Sharad Purnima is not limited to rice. There are several other items that are considered highly auspicious to donate, each carrying its own spiritual significance. Here are some of the key items recommended for donation:
Item
Significance
White Rice
Pleases Goddess Lakshmi, bringing wealth and prosperity.
Milk
Symbolises purity; donating milk enhances positive energy and financial gains.
Sandalwood
Considered auspicious; promotes peace and brings the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi.
Clothes
Donating clothes to the needy brings merit and attracts wealth.
Fruits
Offering fruits is beloved by deities and ensures divine blessings.
Jaggery
Symbolises prosperity and helps in removing ancestral curses.
Deep Daan (Lamp)
Represents knowledge; donating lamps can eliminate financial troubles and enhance wisdom.
Guidelines for Charity on Sharad Purnima
Charity on this day is regarded as an opportunity to invite divine blessings, and thus, it must be done with sincerity and humility. Here are a few key points to keep in mind while donating:
Charity should be performed with a pure heart, free from greed or ill will.
Donations should be made to those in need.
While donating, chant “Om” to maintain a spiritual mindset.
On the night of Sharad Purnima, prepare kheer (rice pudding) and place it under the moonlight. Later, consume it as prasad (sacred offering).
Worship Goddess Lakshmi and light lamps (diyas) to seek her blessings for prosperity and abundance.
By following these rituals, devotees can ensure the grace of Goddess Lakshmi and abundance throughout the year.
Charity, or daan, is considered one of the most significant acts in Hinduism. It is believed that charity leads to moksha (liberation), and people give charity to attain peace of mind, fulfil desires, gain merit, overcome planetary obstacles, and receive divine blessings. The importance of daan is emphasised further because the rewards of charity are believed to extend beyond life itself, continuing into the afterlife.
Sharad Purnima is not only a day of worship and rituals but also a powerful occasion for charity. By donating rice, milk, fruits, and lamps, devotees can invite prosperity, eliminate obstacles, and seek the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and fortune. Each act of charity on Sharad Purnima holds deep spiritual meaning, helping devotees secure divine blessings for the coming year.
Sharad Purnima 2024, to be marked on October 16, is an auspicious time for charity. Discover the significance of donating items like rice, milk, and lamps to invite prosperity and seek Goddess Lakshmi’s blessings. Spirituality Lifestyle News -Fashion Trends, Beauty Tips, Celebrity Party News, Relationship advice, Travel and Food Tips
