Sharad Purnima is considered one of the most auspicious and spiritually charged full moon nights of the year. It's believed that on this night, the moon is especially close to the Earth, and its rays are infused with a divine, healing nectar. This sacred night is profoundly linked with Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth, prosperity, and good fortune, who is believed to descend upon the Earth to bless her devotees.If you wish to invite the grace of Goddess Lakshmi into your home and life, Sharad Purnima is the perfect occasion. Here are some simple, traditional practices you can follow to please her.The Ritual of the Moonlight KheerThe most famous and cherished tradition of Sharad Purnima is the preparation of a special kheer (rice pudding). This is not just a dessert but a sacred offering.Preparation: Make the kheer with rice, milk, and sugar in the evening. If possible, use a silver or an earthen pot, as these are considered pure. The richness of the milk symbolizes prosperity.Charging it Under the Moon: Once prepared, the kheer is covered with a thin cloth and left under the moonlight for the entire night. It's believed that the moon's rays, full of divine nectar, get absorbed into the kheer, infusing it with healing properties and blessings for wealth and health.Consuming the Prasad: The next morning, this moonlight-charged kheer is distributed and consumed as 'prasad' by the entire family.Welcoming the Goddess into Your HomeGoddess Lakshmi is said to visit clean, well-lit, and welcoming homes.Cleanliness: Before the evening puja, ensure your home is spotlessly clean. A clean environment is believed to attract positive energy and the Goddess herself.Lighting the Way: Light a ghee lamp (diya) and try to keep it burning throughout the night. It is also a beautiful custom to light diyas around your home, especially at the entrance, to welcome Goddess Lakshmi.Drawing Her Footsteps: A lovely tradition is to draw small footprints with rice flour and vermilion (roli) paste, leading from your main door to the prayer room. This symbolizes the path for the Goddess to walk into your home.Performing the Lakshmi PujaThe evening of Sharad Purnima is an ideal time for a special prayer dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi.The Altar: Set up a clean space for the puja. Place an idol or a picture of Goddess Lakshmi on a fresh, clean cloth. Decorate it with flowers.Special Offerings: Along with the kheer, there are a few items that are considered favorites of Goddess Lakshmi. Offerings ofmakhana (fox nuts) andbatashe (small, airy sugar cakes) are particularly auspicious on this night. It is also considered highly favorable to gift your mother, mother-in-law, or a mother-figure something sweet.Chanting Mantras: The night of Sharad Purnima is meant for staying awake (a vigil known as 'Kojagari,' which means 'who is awake?'). It is believed that Goddess Lakshmi blesses those she finds awake and devoted. During this time, chanting her mantras, such as the Lakshmi Chalisa or the simple yet powerful mantra,'Om Shreem Hreem Shreem Mahalakshmyai Namah,' can create a divine and prosperous vibration in your home.By observing these simple yet meaningful rituals with a pure heart, you can connect with the divine energy of Sharad Purnima and invite the abundant blessings of Goddess Lakshmi into your life.
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