Sharad Purnima 2025: Date, Puja Timing, Significance, Kheer Ritual and Moonlight Fasting Rules

Digital Desk

Sharad Purnima, the most auspicious full moon of the Hindu calendar, will be observed on Monday, October 6, 2025. Devotees worship Lord Krishna and Goddess Lakshmi, observe fasts, and perform the traditional kheer ritual under the serene moonlight. This full moon is also known as Kojagari Purnima, marking the end of the monsoon and the beginning of the Sharad season.

Significance and beliefs

According to Hindu belief, on Sharad Purnima the moon showers nectar-like rays believed to possess healing properties. It is said that Goddess Lakshmi visits homes at night and blesses those who remain awake in devotion. In many regions, the day commemorates Krishna’s Maha-Raas with the Gopis in Braj, symbolizing divine love and bliss. Farmers also seek blessings for prosperity as the harvest season begins.

Puja vidhi and vrat rules

Devotees bathe early, wear clean clothes, and install images of Lakshmi and Krishna. Offer lotus, white flowers, sweets, and light desi ghee diyas. Many observe a day-long fast, breaking it only after the moonrise puja. Reciting Lakshmi Ashtakam, Vishnu Sahasranama, and Krishna bhajans is considered highly meritorious. Charity of grains, milk, and white garments is also recommended for prosperity.

Kheer under moonlight

Preparing rice kheer with cow’s milk and keeping it under direct moonlight for a few hours is the hallmark ritual of Sharad Purnima. The kheer is believed to absorb cooling, sattvic energy from the moon. It is later consumed as prasad by family members and shared with neighbors, promoting health and harmony.

Regional observances

In Bengal and eastern India, the night-long vigil is called Kojagari Vrata, with the call “Ko jagarti?”—“Who is awake?” Maharashtra and Gujarat households perform Lakshmi-Kuber puja, while Braj celebrates Raas Leela.