Purnima, the full moon day in the Hindu lunar calendar, holds significant spiritual importance. Observing a fast (Vrat) on Purnima is believed to bring prosperity, spiritual growth, and the blessings of Lord Vishnu. Each Purnima is associated with specific rituals and, in some cases, unique legends (Vrat Katha).
Purnima Vrat Dates for 2025
Here are the Purnima dates for 2025:
| Month | Purnima Date | Day | Notable Observances |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | January 13 | Monday | Paush Purnima |
| February | February 12 | Wednesday | Magha Purnima |
| March | March 14 | Friday | Phalguna Purnima |
| April | April 13 | Sunday | Chaitra Purnima |
| May | May 12 | Monday | Vaishakha Purnima |
| June | June 11 | Wednesday | Jyeshtha Purnima |
| July | July 10 | Thursday | Ashadha Purnima |
| August | August 9 | Saturday | Shravana Purnima |
| September | September 7 | Sunday | Bhadrapada Purnima |
| October | October 6 | Monday | Ashwin Purnima |
| November | November 5 | Wednesday | Kartika Purnima |
| December | December 5 | Friday | Margashirsha Purnima |
Please note that these dates are based on the Hindu lunar calendar and may vary slightly depending on regional and local customs.
Significance of Purnima Vrat
Observing a fast on Purnima is believed to:
- Purify the mind and body.
- Attract divine blessings, particularly from Lord Vishnu.
- Enhance spiritual growth and inner peace.
Each Purnima may have its own significance and associated legends. For instance, Paush Purnima, observed in January, is considered highly auspicious for taking holy baths and performing charitable activities. It is believed that observing a fast on this day brings the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi.
General Purnima Vrat Rituals (Puja Vidhi)
- Morning Rituals:
- Sacred Bath: Begin the day with a holy bath, preferably in a sacred river or by adding a few drops of Ganga water to your bathing water.
- Sankalpa (Vow): Take a pledge to observe the fast with devotion and sincerity.
- Fasting:
- Maintain a fast throughout the day. Some devotees observe a strict fast without water (Nirjala), while others may consume fruits and milk.
- Worship (Puja):
- Altar Preparation: Set up a clean altar with an image or idol of Lord Vishnu.
- Offerings: Present fresh flowers, incense, lamps, and offerings like fruits and sweets to the deity.
- Recitation: Chant Vishnu mantras and, if possible, read or listen to the Satyanarayan Katha, a narrative that extols the virtues of Lord Vishnu.
- Evening Rituals:
- Moon Worship: In the evening, after sighting the full moon, offer prayers and Arghya (water offering) to the moon.
- Conclusion of Fast:
- After completing the rituals, conclude the fast by consuming the offerings and other light foods.
Observing the Purnima Vrat with dedication is believed to bring peace, prosperity, and spiritual fulfillment. It is an opportunity to seek divine grace and reflect on one’s spiritual journey.