Sharad Purnima is an important festival in Hindu tradition, celebrated with prayers, moon worship and the preparation of kheer. According to religious beliefs, the moon appears with all 16 of its kalas, or phases, on this night, and its rays are associated with amrit, or nectar. This belief has led to the custom of placing kheer under the open sky and worshipping the moon. Many devotees also perform special prayers to Goddess Lakshmi for prosperity and happiness.
In 2026, questions have arisen about whether Sharad Purnima falls on October 25 or October 26. The festival’s observance depends on the timing of the Purnima tithi and the traditional importance of the full-moon night. Here is a guide to the date, moonrise time, kheer ritual and commonly followed puja vidhi.
When Is Sharad Purnima 2026? Date and Tithi Timings
Sharad Purnima falls on the full-moon day of the Shukla Paksha in the Hindu month of Ashwin. In 2026, the Purnima tithi begins at 11:55 am on October 25 and ends at 9:41 am on October 26.
As the full-moon night falls on October 25, moon worship and the tradition of placing kheer under the moonlight will be observed that evening. Bathing, charity and religious prayers are also considered significant during the Purnima period.
The festival is known by several names, including Kojagari Purnima, Raas Purnima and Kaumudi Purnima. Customs and ritual timings may differ across regions, so devotees should consult the local Panchang before finalising their fasting or puja schedule.
Sharad Purnima 2026: Moonrise Time and Arghya Ritual
Moon worship is one of the main traditions associated with Sharad Purnima. In Delhi, the moon is expected to rise at approximately 5 pm on October 25, 2026. The exact moonrise time will vary by location, depending on geographical conditions and the local Panchang.
Devotees who wish to offer arghya to the moon can prepare the worship area before moonrise. Once the moon becomes visible, they may offer water while reciting prayers or mantras according to their family traditions.
Some households offer water mixed with milk, while others follow different regional customs. The ritual is generally performed with prayers for peace, happiness and the well-being of family members.
Why Is Kheer Kept Under the Moonlight?
Placing kheer under the moonlight is among the best-known Sharad Purnima traditions. According to religious belief, the moon’s rays have special significance on this night, and kheer exposed to the moonlight is considered to acquire the qualities of amrit.
The dish is commonly prepared using milk, rice and sugar. Families follow different practices for preparing and offering it.
- When to place kheer: Traditionally, it is placed under the moonlight after moonrise on the night of October 25.
- Is there a fixed time? Some families follow the custom of placing kheer outside after 8 pm, but this is not a universal requirement. Local Panchang guidance and family traditions may differ.
- How to keep it: Use a clean container and cover the kheer to protect it from dust and insects while allowing the customary ritual to be observed.
- When to eat it: The following day, families may offer the kheer to God before distributing or consuming it as prasad.
Food safety is also important. Since milk-based kheer can spoil when left at room temperature for extended periods, avoid keeping it outdoors throughout the night without appropriate temperature control. The traditional practice can be followed while ensuring the food is stored safely.
Sharad Purnima Lakshmi Puja Vidhi
Sharad Purnima is also associated with the worship of Goddess Lakshmi. According to popular belief, Goddess Lakshmi visits the earth on this night and blesses devotees who remain awake and worship her. This belief is linked to the name Kojagari Purnima, which is traditionally associated with staying awake.
Devotees often clean their homes, decorate their prayer areas and light lamps before beginning the puja. Lotus flowers, fruits, sweets and kheer may be offered to Goddess Lakshmi. Many people also recite Lakshmi mantras, the Lakshmi Chalisa and prayers dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
A commonly followed puja method includes these steps:
- Wake up early, bathe and wear clean clothes.
- Clean the home shrine and place images or idols of Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Vishnu.
- Light a diya and offer flowers, fruits, sweets and other customary puja items.
- Recite prayers and mantras according to your faith and family traditions.
- In the evening, wait for moonrise, worship the moon and offer arghya.
- Place kheer under the moonlight according to the customary practice followed in your household.
- The following day, offer the kheer to God before distributing or eating it as prasad.
Charity is also considered auspicious on this occasion. Some devotees donate food, clothing and other useful items to people in need.
As Sharad Purnima approaches on October 25, 2026, moon worship, prayers to Goddess Lakshmi and the sharing of kheer as prasad remain central to the festival’s traditional observance.
Disclaimer: This article describes religious beliefs, customary practices and traditional interpretations associated with Sharad Purnima. These beliefs are presented for cultural and informational purposes and should not be interpreted as scientifically established facts. Ritual timings may vary by location and Panchang, so readers should consult a reliable local calendar for specific observances.