On October 6, 2025, Hindus celebrate Sharad Purnima, a day deemed exceptionally powerful for religious and spiritual practices. This auspicious occasion is marked by the moon radiating its full divine energy upon the Earth. Devotees of Shri Hari observe fasts and offer heartfelt prayers to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi. Celebrated in the month of Ashwina, a unique and significant ritual involves placing rice kheer under the moonlight, allowing it to absorb the celestial ‘nectar’ believed to descend from the moon’s rays. But what’s the true essence behind this enchanting tradition?
Why Do We Place Kheer Under Moonlight on Sharad Purnima?
During Sharad Purnima, the moon is said to manifest all sixteen *Kalas*, or attributes, symbolizing human perfection. It’s widely believed that on this single night, the moon’s rays possess extraordinary healing capabilities. The ritual of placing kheer under the moonlight aims to imbue this sweet dish with these potent health-promoting qualities, transforming it into a sacred offering. Consuming this ‘moon-charged’ kheer is thought to alleviate chronic illnesses, skin conditions, colds, coughs, and even asthma. Furthermore, it’s believed to impart mental and physical strength and vitality to those who partake.
The Profound Significance of Moonlit Kheer on Sharad Purnima
The tradition of preparing kheer with rice and cow’s milk and leaving it under the full moon’s glow carries profound religious and spiritual weight. Hindus believe that on Sharad Purnima, the moon’s potent rays possess therapeutic properties capable of purifying the soul and healing the body. Consequently, consuming this moon-infused kheer the next morning is considered highly beneficial, as it’s thought to have absorbed these divine characteristics. This blessed kheer is then shared among family and friends as *Prasad*, a sacred offering that symbolizes the distribution of blessings and divine grace, adding a deep sense of reverence to the Sharad Purnima festivities.