Kojagiri Purnima: The Full Moon Night of Harvest and Abundance

Kojagiri Purnima, also known as Sharad Purnima, is one of the most significant full moon nights in Hindu culture. It falls on the full moon day of the Ashwin month, which usually occurs in October or November.
This festival is celebrated with great fervor and devotion in many parts of India, particularly in Maharashtra and Gujarat. It is believed that on this night, the Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity, visits homes and blesses those who worship her.

Rituals and Traditions

Kojagiri Purnima is celebrated with various rituals and traditions. One of the key customs is preparing kheer, a sweet rice pudding, and offering it to the Goddess Lakshmi. Devotees also light diyas (earthen lamps) and place them in their homes and temples.
Another tradition is to stay awake all night and engage in devotional activities such as singing bhajans, reading scriptures, and playing games. It is believed that staying awake on Kojagiri Purnima brings good luck and prosperity.

Harvest Festival

Kojagiri Purnima is also considered a harvest festival in some parts of India. It marks the end of the monsoon season and the beginning of the harvesting season. Farmers offer prayers to the gods and goddesses for a bountiful harvest.

Mythological Significance

According to mythology, Kojagiri Purnima is the night when Lord Vishnu awoke from his four-month-long slumber (Chaturmas). It is believed that on this night, he grants wishes and blesses those who worship him.

Celebration in Maharashtra

In Maharashtra, Kojagiri Purnima is known as Kojagiri Pournima. It is one of the most important festivals in the state and is celebrated with great enthusiasm. People perform traditional dances and music, and exchange sweets and gifts.
Kojagiri Purnima is a vibrant and auspicious festival that holds great significance in Hindu culture. It is a time to celebrate the harvest, worship the Goddess Lakshmi, and seek blessings for wealth and prosperity. The rituals and traditions associated with this festival have been passed down through generations and continue to be observed with devotion and joy.