Sharad Purnima is an important festival celebrated in Hinduism, observed on the fifteenth day of the bright fortnight in the month of Ashwin. According to religious beliefs, on this day, Lord Vishnu and the goddess of wealth, Lakshmi, are worshipped. The night of Sharad Purnima holds special significance. On this day, the Moon is at its fullest with all 16 phases, illuminating the sky with its bright light. The clear sky on this day symbolizes the end of the monsoon season.
Fasting on Sharad Purnima, worshipping Lord Vishnu, and donating to the poor and needy brings eternal blessings. It is also considered very auspicious to leave rice pudding (kheer) under the open sky on this night because the rays of the Moon are believed to have miraculous properties. It is said that by staying awake and worshipping Goddess Lakshmi at night, one can overcome financial troubles and attain wealth and prosperity.
In the Sanatan tradition, it is considered highly virtuous to donate to Brahmins and deserving individuals on Purnima (full moon).
In the Shrimad Bhagavad Gita, Lord Krishna says:
“यज्ञदानतप: कर्म न त्याज्यं कार्यमेव तत्।”
“Yajna, charity, and austerity are duties not to be abandoned; they must certainly be performed.”
Referring to the importance of charity, ancient scriptures state:
अल्पमपि क्षितौ क्षिप्तं वटबीजं प्रवर्धते ।
जलयोगात् यथा दानात् पुण्यवृक्षोऽपि वर्धते ॥
“Just as a small banyan seed grows into a large tree when it gets water, similarly, the tree of virtue grows through charity.”
On the auspicious occasion of Sharad Purnima, contribute to Narayan Seva Sansthan’s initiative of providing meals to underprivileged, poor, and differently-abled children, and be a part of this noble cause.
With your donation, 50 needy, poor, and differently-abled people will be provided with lifetime meals once a year.
