Also known as Kojagari Poornima
and Raas Poornima, this day is dedicated to the worship of Goddess Lakshmi, who
also happens to be the Goddess of wealth and prosperity.
In parts of Bengal, the occasion
is simply called Lokkhi Pujo (Lakshmi
Puja), whereas in Gujarat, it is called Sharad
Poonam.
Significance and Observance
It is believed that on this day,
the moon comes out with all its sixteen kaalas or phases: Bright, beautiful and
magnificent. The festival is related to the harvest season, which is why people
pray to Goddess Lakshmi for prosperity and success. Many people observe a
ritualistic fast (or vrata) on this day as a mark of devotion towards Goddess Lakshmi.
They also wake up early and clean their houses for the Goddess to take shelter.
In Bengal, people also draw rangoli in their courtyard.
The vrat or fast observed on this day could be nirjala or phallahara. In the nirjala vrata, people do not consume even a drop of water, in the phallahara vrat people can consume fruits, nuts and milk, but avoid grains and legumes. Many people break their fasts with some milk/curd or flattened rice; some also like to end their fasts with a bowl of kheer. Pregnant women, elderly people and sick people are not advised to fast on this day.