Sharad Purnima 2017: Puja Vidhi, Method, Muhurat Timings, Vrat Katha

Not only does the moon shine with all sixteen kalas but its rays also have certain healing properties that nourish the body and soul. It is also believed that the moon rays on the day of Sharad Purnima drip nectar. Traditionally, to take advantage of the divine phenomenon, rice-kheer, a famous Indian sweet dish made of cow milk, rice and sugar, is prepared and left in the moonlight for the whole night. In the morning, the kheer said to embody an essence of nectar in it, is distributed among all family members.

On the day of Sharad Purnima, devotees also read the legendary story or katha of two sisters, who observed fast on every Sharad Purnima. While the younger sister would never do the ritual with total dedication, her elder sister was extremely devoted and religious. According to the story, the younger sister had to face hardship in life whereas her elder sister lived a content and joyful life. This effect is said to be due to the grace of Lord Moon and the power of the Sharad Purnima vrat.

Hence, worshiping the moon on the day of Sharad Purnima is considered very significant. Newlywed women, who take a pledge to do Purnimasi fasting for a year, begin the fast from the day of Sharad Purnima. In Gujarat, it is popularly known as Sharad Poonam.