Sharad Purnima 2025: Date, timings, rituals, and its connection to health and Ayurveda

Sharad Purnima, also called Kojagari Purnima or Raas Purnima, is among the most celebrated full moon nights in the Hindu calendar. It falls in the month of Ashwin, symbolizing the end of the monsoon and the beginning of the harvest season. The night is considered spiritually powerful, as it is believed to be the only full moon that radiates all sixteen kalas—the divine qualities that together represent human completeness.

According to Hindu tradition, Lord Krishna is the only incarnation born with all sixteen kalas, earning him the title of Purnavatara—the perfect and complete form of Lord Vishnu.

Sharad Purnima 2025: Date and time

In 2025, Sharad Purnima will be observed on Monday, 6 October. As per Drik Panchang, the Purnima Tithi begins at 12:23 PM on October 6 and ends at 9:16 AM on October 7. The moonrise is expected around 5:33–5:40 PM IST, although exact timing may vary depending on the location. Devotees traditionally observe fasts, offer prayers to Lord Vishnu and Chandra Dev (the Moon God), and seek blessings for health, prosperity, and spiritual growth.

The night also carries deep cultural significance as it is believed to be the occasion when Lord Krishna performed the divine Maha-Raas with the Gopis in Vrindavan. This association has earned it the name Raas Purnima.

Sharad Purnima 2025: Rituals and Observances

Kheer Under Moonlight: Devotees prepare kheer (rice pudding) and place it under the open sky, allowing it to absorb the moonlight overnight. It is consumed the next morning as prasadam, believed to have healing and nourishing properties.

Fasting: Many observe full or partial fasts, breaking them after moonrise.

Lakshmi Puja: Homes are cleaned and decorated with lamps, and Goddess Lakshmi is worshipped as she is believed to bless those who remain awake on this night.

Night Vigil: People spend the night singing devotional songs, reading scriptures, meditating, and moon-gazing.

Sharad Purnima 2025: Health and Ayurvedic Benefits

Ayurveda links Sharad Purnima rituals to wellness. Moonlight is considered cooling and therapeutic, while foods like milk, saffron, and cardamom help balance the body after the humid monsoon season. Fasting provides digestive rest and supports detoxification, while the seasonal dietary practices prepare the body for autumn and help prevent seasonal illnesses.