Introduction to Poshi Purnima
Poshi Purnima is the last tithi (lunar day) of the month of Paush, celebrated on the sacred occasion of the full moon. This day is considered important for devotion, penance, holy bathing, and charity. Poshi Purnima also marks the beginning of the Magh month, which is also known as Dharmamas or Tapmas. Therefore, Poshi Purnima holds great spiritual significance.
Mythological Story and Significance
According to legend, King Janamejaya began a yajna (ritual sacrifice) on Poshi Purnima to remove the curse that caused his father's death. On this day, holy bathing and donations are believed to bring peace to ancestors. Scriptures also mention that bathing and charity on this day yield manifold blessings.
Importance of Holy Bathing and Charity
On this day, thousands of pilgrims gather at holy places to bathe in rivers like the Ganga, Yamuna, and Narmada. After bathing, donations of basil leaves, sesame seeds, jaggery, ghee, clothes, and other essentials are considered meritorious. In regions like Kathiawar and Northern India, special pilgrimages are organized on this day.
Worship, Fasting, and Moon Viewing
Devotees perform worship of Lord Vishnu, Lord Shiva, Goddess Lakshmi, and the Moon God. They observe fasts and offer water (Arghya) to the Moon. The worship concludes at night with Aarti and devotional singing (bhajans).
Family Traditions and Marriage Ceremonies
In some families, this day is considered an auspicious time for marriage rituals. In many regions, special fasts and vows are observed on Poshi Purnima with the desire of having a son.
Other Religious Perspectives
Offerings like bananas, rice pudding (kheer), and sesame-based sweets are distributed as prasad. Rites performed with devotion on this day are believed to satisfy the ancestors and bring spiritual welfare to the devotees.