Purnima Vrat

Importance of Purnima

• In Hindu calendar, Purnima is of great significance. Therefore, over the twelve months, Purnima coincides with twelve special occasions and festivals.
• On a full-moon day, the moon is in its full glory and symbolizes the removal of darkness.
• Special Puja like the Satyanarayan puja is conducted this day.
• According to Hindu mythology several of the Gods were born this day.

Festivals falling on Purnima in different months

Paush Purnima

Paush Purnima is a remarkable day in Hindu calendar. It is observed in the months of December-January as per the English calendar. On this occasion, Hindu devotees take a holy dip at the Prayag Sangam (the confluence of Rivers Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati). It is believed that such an act absolves an individual of the sins, and he or she will achieve ‘moksha’ or salvation.

Magha Purnima

Maghi Purnima, also known by the name of Magha Purnima, is known to be a day of the full moon that occurs during the month of Magh. The Kumbh Mela is held once in every twelve years during this auspicious period.

Holi

Holi falls in the month of Phalguna that marks the arrival of spring. Widely known as the festival of colours, it is celebrated for two days. It is celebrated in most parts of India and Nepal. Holika Dahan takes place the night before Rangwali Holi (Dulhandi).

Hanuman Jayanti

Hanuman Jayanti is celebrated on a full-moon day during the Chaitra month. Hanuman, who is also known as Vanara God, was born this day. Hanuman Jayanti is observed in celebration of his birth.

Buddha Purnima

It falls in the month of Vaishakha and is celebrated as birth anniversary of Gautama Buddha whose birth name was Siddhartha Gautama. A spiritual teacher who founded Buddhism, his birth is celebrated in India, Nepal, and South-East Asian countries.

Vat Purnima

One of the most auspicious Hindu tithis (dates), it is also known as Jyeshtha Purnima. It is falls in the Jyeshtha month. The vrat is observed by married women for the longevity of their husbands and a prosperous married life.

Ashadha Purnima

This day dedicated to Guru, is celebrated on the Purnima. Rath Yatra is held on month of Ashadha every year.

Raksha Bandhan

Raksha Bandhan is celebrated in the Shravana month. Rakhi is basically a sacred thread of protection that symbolizes the love and affection of a sister for her brother.

Madhu Purnima

This day is also known as Honey Full-Moon Day. It is celebrated in Bangladesh, especially in the region of Chittagong, and by the Mon people of Thailand. In Hindu calendar, it is celebrated during the month of Bhadrapada.

Purnima Puja and Fasting Procedure

• Wake up early in the morning and take a bath before sunrise.
• You may worship Lord Shiva or Lord Vishnu on this day.
• It is an ideal choice to fast throughout the day without eating anything.
• Fasting starts at sunrise and ends with the sighting of the moon.

urnima Vrat