The auspicious festival of Sharad Purnima will be observed with great devotion on October 25. This special occasion is also recognized by various other names, including Ras Purnima and Kojagara. In the Mithilanchal region, the celebration of Kojagara holds immense cultural and social significance, particularly for newlyweds. Families organize grand feasts on this day, and the in-laws present new garments and jewelry as gifts to the newly married couple, while betel nuts and fox nuts are distributed among neighbors and relatives. Additionally, Kojagari Lakshmi Puja holds paramount importance during this period, especially in Bengal and Mithilanchal, where the rituals are dedicated entirely to the goddess of wealth.
Significance and Mythology of Kojagara
According to traditional beliefs, Goddess Lakshmi descends to the mortal realm riding her owl vehicle during the night of Sharad Purnima. It is believed that individuals who stay awake through the night to worship the goddess receive her continuous blessings and experience a steady growth in their wealth and prosperity. In fact, the term Kojagari originates from the question asking who is awake. Legend has it that the deity herself roams around to witness who remains vigilant at night to offer prayers. Those who observe this night vigil and perform dedicated rituals for the goddess earn her divine grace and protection against financial hardships.
Effective Ways to Please Goddess Lakshmi on Sharad Purnima
Several meaningful practices are recommended for the night of Sharad Purnima to win the favor of Goddess Lakshmi and invite prosperity into the household.
- Create Rangoli at the Entrance: Keep the main gateway of your home impeccably clean on the day of Sharad Purnima. During the evening, design a vibrant rangoli at the entrance or draw auspicious swastika symbols using turmeric and vermilion, followed by lighting a ghee lamp at the doorway.
- Recite Kanakdhara Stotra: Reciting the Kanakdhara Stotra or the Lakshmi Sukta on the night of Kojagara is considered highly auspicious. Performing this devotional practice pleases the deity and ensures lasting harmony and abundance within the family.
- Night Vigil and Mantra Chanting: Spend the night of Sharad Purnima engaged in nocturnal prayers and chanting divine hymns dedicated to the goddess. It is recommended to chant the mantra Om Shrim Hrim Shrim Kamale Mahalakshmi Namah at least 108 times during the Kojagara night.
- Worship Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi: Offer joint prayers to Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Vishnu on this sacred festival. Adorn the goddess by offering sacred lotus flowers, cowrie shells, fox nuts, and lotus seeds during the rituals.
