Bhadrapada Purnima 2024: Know Date, Tithi Time, Significance
Posted on September 15, 2024
About Bhadrapada Purnima
Bhadrapada Purnima, also known as Bhadra Purnima, is the full moon day that falls in the Hindu month of Bhadrapada (August-September). It is an auspicious occasion with deep religious and cultural significance for Hindus and Jains. The day is dedicated to worshipping deities, performing sacred rituals, and making offerings to ancestors. The festival is observed across different regions of India, with unique customs and traditions.
Bhadrapada Purnima 2024 Date and Time
Wednesday, September 18
Purnima Tithi Begins – 11:44 AM on Sep 17, 2024
Purnima Tithi Ends – 08:04 AM on Sep 18, 2024
Importance of Bhadrapada Purnima
Bhadrapada Purnima is considered one of the most significant days in the Hindu calendar. The full moon, or Purnima, itself holds spiritual importance, symbolizing completeness and divine light. This day marks the transition from the rainy season to the early autumn and has various religious and ritualistic associations.
1. Lord Vishnu Worship: Devotees of Lord Vishnu observe Bhadrapada Purnima as a day to offer prayers, fasts, and rituals dedicated to Vishnu, particularly his Vamana avatar. The Vamana avatar was taken by Lord Vishnu to restore balance to the world, and this incarnation is revered during the Bhadrapada month.
On this day, worshippers seek blessings for prosperity, peace, and spiritual growth by fasting and visiting temples.
2. Pitru Paksha Begins: Bhadrapada Purnima marks the beginning of Pitru Paksha, a 16-day period during which Hindus honour their ancestors. Pitru Paksha, also known as the fortnight of the ancestors, is a time when rituals like Shradh and Tarpan are performed to pay respects to deceased family members. Hindus believe that performing these rites during this period ensures peace for the souls of the departed and brings blessings to their descendants. Offering food, water, and prayers to the ancestors is a common practice.
3. Sacred Baths and Charity: Taking a holy dip in sacred rivers such as the Ganges, Yamuna, or Godavari on Bhadrapada Purnima is considered highly auspicious. This act is believed to purify the soul and wash away past sins.
Charity, especially donations of food, clothes, and money to the needy, is considered a way to accumulate good karma on this day. Many devotees visit temples or organize charitable events to give back to society.
4. Cultural Significance: In some regions, Bhadrapada Purnima is associated with various local festivals and fairs. In Gujarat, for example, it coincides with the Bhadarvi Poonam fair, held in the famous Ambaji temple, which attracts thousands of pilgrims.
In Tamil Nadu, the day is observed with fervour in the form of special temple rituals and prayers. Devotees often recite sacred hymns, perform kirtans, and participate in community gatherings.
Conclusion
Bhadrapada Purnima is a spiritually rich and culturally vibrant day in the Hindu and Jain calendars. Whether it is through fasting, offering prayers, performing ancestral rituals, or seeking forgiveness, the day is marked by devotion, reflection, and acts of compassion. This full moon day is a time to cleanse the soul, seek divine blessings, and honour both deities and ancestors, making it a cherished festival for millions across India.
Categories: Purnima Dates & Time
Tags: Purnima 2024 dates
