Sharad Purnima is one of the most auspicious full moon festivals in Hinduism. Celebrated during the Hindu month of Ashwin, this sacred occasion is associated with Goddess Lakshmi, the Moon God and the blessings of prosperity and abundance. Devotees observe the day with prayers, fasting, night-long worship and the traditional practice of placing rice kheer under the moonlight.
Also known as Kojagari Purnima, Sharad Purnima is considered an important occasion for worshipping Goddess Lakshmi and praying for happiness, peace and financial well-being. Here is everything you need to know about Sharad Purnima 2026, including its date, auspicious puja timings, rituals and significance.
When Is Sharad Purnima 2026?
Sharad Purnima will be observed on Sunday, October 25, 2026. The full moon, or Purnima Tithi, begins on October 25 and continues into the morning of October 26.
According to the Panchang timings reported for 2026, the Purnima Tithi begins at approximately 11:55 AM on October 25 and ends at approximately 9:41 AM on October 26.
Since timings can vary slightly according to the Panchang and location, devotees should check their local calendar before performing the rituals.
Sharad Purnima 2026: Auspicious Time for Lakshmi Puja
The night of Sharad Purnima holds special significance for devotees of Goddess Lakshmi. The traditional Kojagari Puja is performed at night, with particular importance given to worship during Nishita Kaal.
For 2026, the reported auspicious window for Lakshmi Puja is approximately 11:39 PM on October 25 to 12:30 AM on October 26.
During this period, devotees can offer prayers to Goddess Lakshmi, chant sacred mantras and seek blessings for prosperity and family well-being.
The exact muhurat may differ by location, so consulting a local Panchang is recommended before beginning the puja.
Why Is Sharad Purnima Considered Auspicious?
According to Hindu religious beliefs, Sharad Purnima is the night when the Moon shines with all sixteen kalas, symbolising completeness and perfection. Its bright moonlight is traditionally associated with peace, nourishment and spiritual well-being.
The festival is also connected with Goddess Lakshmi, who is worshipped as the deity of wealth, prosperity and good fortune.
The name Kojagari comes from the traditional expression “Ko Jagarti?”, meaning “Who is awake?” According to popular belief, Goddess Lakshmi visits the Earth on this night and blesses those who remain awake in devotion.
For this reason, many families perform Lakshmi Puja late at night, light diyas and participate in bhajans or devotional prayers.
Another important tradition is preparing rice kheer and placing it under the moonlight. This custom is associated with the belief that the moonlight on Sharad Purnima has special nourishing qualities.
Sharad Purnima Puja Vidhi: Step-by-Step Rituals
Devotees can follow these traditional rituals to worship Goddess Lakshmi on Sharad Purnima.
1. Wake Up Early and Take a Bath
Begin the day by waking up early, taking a bath and wearing clean clothes. Those observing a fast can take a sankalp, or a devotional vow, according to their family traditions.
2. Clean the Puja Area
Clean the home temple and arrange a puja chowki. Place a clean red or yellow cloth on it and install an idol or picture of Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Vishnu.
Keep the puja essentials ready, including flowers, rice grains, incense sticks, a diya, sweets and other offerings.
3. Worship Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Vishnu
Light a diya and offer flowers, akshat, incense and sweets to the deities. Devotees may also offer seasonal fruits and kheer as bhog.
Pray for happiness, prosperity, peace and the well-being of family members. You can perform the aarti and recite traditional prayers dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi.
4. Prepare Kheer and Place It Under the Moonlight
Preparing rice kheer is one of the most well-known Sharad Purnima traditions.
Cook rice with milk and sugar, adding cardamom if desired. Offer the kheer to the deities first, then place it in a clean vessel where it can receive the moonlight.
Keep the kheer protected from dust and insects with a clean, food-safe cover that allows appropriate exposure to the night air. The following morning, distribute it among family members as prasad.
5. Chant the Lakshmi Mantra
Devotees can chant the following mantra during Lakshmi Puja:
Om Shreem Mahalakshmyai Namah.
Repeat the mantra with devotion while concentrating on Goddess Lakshmi. You can also listen to Lakshmi bhajans, recite devotional hymns or spend time in prayer.
6. Observe Night Vigil
Staying awake during the night is an important tradition associated with Kojagari Purnima. Families may spend the evening singing bhajans, chanting mantras and performing Lakshmi Puja.
Devotees who are observing the vigil can follow their family customs and choose a prayer routine that suits them.
7. Distribute Prasad the Next Morning
On the following morning, distribute the kheer among family members and offer prayers for continued prosperity and happiness. Those observing a fast can conclude it according to their family traditions and the guidance of their local Panchang.
What Is the Significance of Kheer on Sharad Purnima?
The tradition of placing kheer under the full moon is an integral part of Sharad Purnima celebrations. According to religious belief, the moonlight on this night is associated with amrit, or divine nectar.
Families prepare kheer using rice and milk, offer it to the deities and place it under the open sky. The prasad is traditionally consumed the following morning.
Apart from its religious significance, this custom brings families together and adds a special element to the celebration of the full moon.
How to Celebrate Sharad Purnima 2026 at Home
You do not need elaborate arrangements to observe Sharad Purnima. Begin by cleaning your puja space, arranging flowers and lighting a diya in front of Goddess Lakshmi. Prepare a simple offering, perform the aarti and chant the Lakshmi mantra.
In the evening, spend some time in prayer and, if possible, enjoy the moonlight with your family. You can also prepare traditional kheer and follow the customary moonlight ritual.
The most important aspects of Sharad Purnima are devotion, gratitude and prayers for the well-being of your loved ones. Following the rituals according to your family traditions makes the occasion meaningful and spiritually fulfilling.
