Sharad Purnima or Kojagiri Purnima is an important day in India. Celebrated on the full moon day of Ashvin the Indian month , it is a day when Goddess Lakshmi is worshipped. Legend has it that Goddess Lakshmi comes on this day and asks Kojagarti ? Kojagarti? meaning who is there. Thus, the devotees ensure that they are awake all night and have a small moonlight feast on this full moon day.
Why Is Sharad Purnima Celebrated and How
Sharad Purnima is thus symbolic of worshipping towards prosperity and progress. In Maharashtra it is called Kojagiri Purnima when people eat rice flakes and milk under the moonlight. They also sing songs in praise of Goddess Lakshmi thus keeping themselves awake. In West Bengal, this day is celebrated as Lokkhi Pujo when idols of Goddess Lakshmi are worshipped with great devotion.
In Odisha , it is called Kumar Purnima when small young girls dress well and pray for a good husband like Kumar. In Gujarat, Lord Krishna is worshipped and people do the Garba and the Raas as it is believed Lord Krishna did his Maha Ras Leela with his cowmaid friends, the Gopis on this day.
Sharad Purnima and Medicinal Significance
It is believed that keeping oneself awake causes acidity. Eating rice flakes and milk would make sure you are not hungry and there is not acidity. This is the reason maybe, the practice of eating this delicious combination is there.
Science and the Festival
Scientifically , the rays of the moon fall closer to our planet on this day and thus it has power and strength.
With great devotion and welcoming Goddess Lakshmi the goddess of wealth, Sharad Purnima is worshipped and thus this is a special day in India.