New Delhi: Today is Sharad Purnima on 25th October. It is also called Kojagari Purnima. This day has great importance in Hindu religion. It is said that tonight the moon is complete with its 16 phases and its light is like nectar. Maa Lakshmi and Chandradev are worshipped on this day. In many homes, there is a tradition of making kheer at night and keeping it in the moonlight.
What is today’s auspicious time?
According to the calendar, the full moon has started at 11:55 pm today and will last till 9:41 am tomorrow on 26th October. It is night today, so the festival is being celebrated today itself. The moon will rise in Delhi at around 5 o’clock. The best time for Lakshmi Puja is from 11:40 pm to 12:31 am. The time of moonrise may be slightly different in every city.
How to perform puja?
Take bath in the morning and wear clean clothes. Clean the house and place of worship. Light a lamp, offer flowers, fruits and sweets in front of Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Vishnu. After the moon rises at night, offer water and pray for happiness and peace. It is believed that on this night Goddess Lakshmi roams around and blesses those who stay awake and worship her. That’s why in many places there are Jagrans and bhajans throughout the night.
Why is Kheer kept in moonlight?
On Sharad Purnima, Kheer is made and kept in moonlight. Kheer made of milk, rice and sugar is kept in a clean vessel and kept in moonlight overnight. The next day it is eaten as Prasad. It is said that on this night there is nectar in the rays of the moon, which comes into the kheer. Just keep in mind to keep the kheer covered with a net so that dust or insects do not fall in it.
