Sharad Purnima is the full moon night that falls in the month of Ashwin (September-October) according to the Hindu lunar calendar. This day is dedicated to honoring the divine and is believed to bring good fortune and prosperity. It is also said that on this night, the moon showers its nectar-like rays, which can enhance spiritual practices and amplify the effects of charitable acts.

Sharad Purnima 2024: Date and Timings

Sharad Purnima 2024 is a Hindu festival that happens during the full moon of Ashwin month. It starts on October 16, 2024, at 8:41 PM and ends on October 17, 2024, at 4:53 PM. The main events will happen on October 16, and people can see the moon rise at 5:04 PM on that day.

The Significance of Donations

• Temple Construction - Donating for temple construction is a noble act that contributes to the spiritual and cultural heritage of society. Temples are not just places of worship; they are centers of community, education, and spirituality. By contributing to temple construction, you are investing in a sacred space that will continue to inspire generations to come.
• Annadaan - Annadaan, or the donation of food, holds a significant place in Hindu culture. It is believed that feeding the hungry is akin to feeding the divine. On Sharad Purnima, the act of annadaan is especially auspicious as it is said that the goddess Laxmi blesses those who share their wealth with the less fortunate. By donating food, you not only fulfill a basic human need but also generate positive.
• Rice - Sharad Purnima is a special day for the charity, with rice being a key donation. People give rice to Goddess Lakshmi because they think it brings good luck and happiness. Rice represents wealth and is believed to clear away problems. This act of giving can bring blessings and improve life in many ways.

Guidelines for Charity on Sharad Purnima

On this day, giving to charity is seen as a chance to receive blessings from the divine, so it's important to do it genuinely and with respect. Here are some important things to remember when donating:

• Give with a clean heart, without wanting anything in return or feeling negative.
• Give to those who need it.
• Say "Om" while giving to stay in a spiritual state.
• On the night of Sharad Purnima, make kheer (rice pudding) and leave it out under the moon. Eat it as a sacred offering later.
• Worship Goddess Lakshmi and light lamps (diyas) to ask for her blessings for wealth and success.

By adhering to these rituals, devotees can ensure the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi and prosperity throughout the year.

Charity, or daan, is regarded as one of the most profound acts in Hinduism. It is believed that charity leads to moksha (liberation), and individuals engage in charitable acts to achieve peace of mind, fulfill desires, earn merit, overcome planetary obstacles, and receive divine blessings. The significance of daan is further highlighted because it is believed that the rewards of charity extend beyond the physical realm, continuing into the afterlife.

Sharad Purnima is not merely a day of worship and rituals but also a significant opportunity for charity. By donating rice, milk, fruits, and lamps, devotees can invite prosperity, remove obstacles, and seek the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and fortune. Each act of charity on Sharad Purnima carries profound spiritual significance, aiding devotees in securing divine blessings for the upcoming year.