Sharad Purnima, also known as Kojagari Purnima, holds a special place in the hearts of Hindus, celebrated with great enthusiasm and devotion. This auspicious festival falls on the full moon day in the Ashwin month of the Hindu calendar. In the year 2023, Sharad Purnima will grace us on Saturday, October 28th. This festival is unique, not just for its celestial significance but also for the age-old tradition of making kheer, a sweet rice pudding, on this day.

The Significance of Sharad Purnima:

Sharad Purnima is celebrated with zeal as it marks the night when the moon shines in all its fullness, displaying all sixteen phases. It is believed that on this night, divine nectar, or amrit, falls from the heavens. This celestial event has led to the tradition of preparing kheer and exposing it to the moonlight overnight. This act imbues the kheer with special properties and is considered a source of blessings and prosperity.

Auspicious Timings for Sharad Purnima 2023:

To make the most of Sharad Purnima, it's important to observe the auspicious timings:

Purnima Tithi begins at 04:17 AM on October 28, 2023.
Purnima Tithi ends at 01:53 AM on October 29, 2023.
Moonrise is expected at 5:47 PM on October 28th.
Rituals and Traditions:

Preparing Kheer: One of the most cherished traditions on Sharad Purnima is the preparation of kheer. It is prepared with love and devotion and placed in a glass or earthen vessel. This vessel is then kept under the open sky to absorb the moon's radiance throughout the night. The kheer is consumed the following day, believed to be charged with lunar energy.

Fasting and Inner Peace: Devotees often choose to fast on Sharad Purnima, symbolizing purity and devotion. Fasting helps in cleansing the body and mind. During the fast, it's essential to maintain inner peace and refrain from harboring negative feelings towards others.

Offering to Lord Krishna: Sharad Purnima is closely associated with Lord Krishna. Devotees offer the prepared kheer to Lord Krishna as a token of their love and reverence.

Moon Worship: As the moon shines at its brightest on this day, people pay their respects to the Moon God. Chanting the mantra 'Om Som Somay Namah' is a part of this worship.

Satyanarayan Puja: On Sharad Purnima, many also worship Lord Satyanarayan, seeking blessings for a harmonious and prosperous life. Additionally, Goddess Lakshmi, Lord Krishna, and the Moon are worshipped to attract good fortune.

Fasting Etiquette: Keeping the body and mind free from distractions during the fast is believed to enhance the experience of the nectar's blessings.

Sharad Purnima 2023 holds a significant place in the Hindu calendar, celebrating the radiance of the full moon and the traditions that accompany it. From preparing kheer to fasting, worshiping deities, and maintaining inner peace, this day is a beautiful blend of spirituality and celestial wonder. As the moon graces us with its luminous presence, may we all be blessed with the sweetness and prosperity symbolized by the kheer prepared with devotion and love on this auspicious day.