Celebrating Sharad Purnima 2026: Astrological Insights and Remedies
Sharad Purnima 2026: The festival is being celebrated nationwide today. This event takes place every year on the full moon day (Purnima) during the bright fortnight (Shukla Paksha) of Ashwin. According to legend, Goddess Lakshmi emerged from the ocean during the 'Samudra Manthan' on this day, making it a significant occasion for her worship, which is believed to bring joy and prosperity. This festival presents a wonderful opportunity to honor Goddess Lakshmi in anticipation of Diwali. Astrologically, engaging in specific rituals on Sharad Purnima night is thought to attract her blessings, enhancing happiness and resolving various issues within families. Let’s delve into the remedies that can be performed to honor Goddess Lakshmi on this auspicious night...
As per the Narada Purana, it is said that Goddess Lakshmi visits homes on the night of Sharad Purnima. On this day, devotees are encouraged to wear white attire and worship both Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi. Reciting the 'Kanakadhara Stotram' and chanting the mantra "Om Shreem Mahalakshmyai Namah" 108 times is believed to enhance wealth and abundance. Additionally, preparing *kheer* (a rice pudding) with saffron, placing it under the moonlight, and consuming it as *prasad* is considered beneficial for health and prosperity.
During the worship of Goddess Lakshmi on Sharad Purnima, devotees should apply a *tilak* of turmeric or saffron on 11 *kaudis* (cowrie shells). These should be placed at the feet of the goddess, and a night-long vigil (*jagran*) should be maintained while chanting her mantras with a rosary made of *kamalgatta* (lotus seeds). The following day, wrap these cowrie shells in red cloth and store them in a safe place to ensure a continuous flow of wealth and prosperity.
For couples facing challenges in their marriage, both partners can offer milk to the Moon (*Arghya*), which is believed to alleviate the negative impacts of *Chandra Dosha* (lunar afflictions). While offering *arghya*, chant the mantra 'Om Som Somaya Namah' 108 times or as many times as feels right. This practice is thought to help resolve marital issues. Additionally, worshipping the Peepal tree on Sharad Purnima and offering a coconut, dry fruits, and a red *chunri* (sacred veil) at a temple dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi can aid in fulfilling one’s desires.
The *Kojagar Vrat* (fast/observance) is particularly significant in regions like West Bengal, Odisha, and Assam, also known as *Kojagari Puja*, *Bengali Lakshmi Puja*, and *Kaumudi Vrat*. On this night, devotees are encouraged to stay awake and chant the special mantra of Goddess Lakshmi: "Om Shreem Hreem Shreem Kamale Kamalalaye Praseeda Praseeda Shreem Hreem Shreem Om Mahalakshmyai Namah." The *Kanakadhara Stotra* and *Shri Sukta* are also recited. It is believed that those who remain awake on this night receive blessings of wealth and prosperity from Goddess Lakshmi.
According to the *Skanda Purana*, this observance brings wealth, health, and happiness. Devotees stay awake throughout the night to worship Goddess Lakshmi and perform special rituals. The unique celestial alignment on this day holds significant spiritual and astrological importance for devotees. Worshipping the Moon and observing the fast not only promotes mental peace but also encourages positive transformations in one’s life.