Mumbai: Chaitra Purnima, also known as Chaiti Purnima, holds great religious and spiritual importance in Hinduism. Falling on the full moon day of the Chaitra month – the first month of the Hindu calendar – this sacred occasion is celebrated with rituals dedicated to Lord Vishnu, Goddess Lakshmi, and Lord Hanuman. In 2025, the day gains added significance as it also marks Hanuman Jayanti, believed to be the divine birth anniversary of Lord Hanuman.

On this auspicious day, devotees engage in various rituals, including holy baths in sacred rivers, offering donations, and performing pujas. The day is especially considered highly auspicious for spiritual merit and prosperity. Fasting, reciting scriptures, and worshipping deities are common practices observed by Hindus across the world.

When is Chaitra Purnima in 2025?

According to the Hindu Panchang (calendar), the Purnima Tithi (full moon date) of the Shukla Paksha in the month of Chaitra will begin at 3:21 AM on 12 April 2025 and conclude at 5:51 AM on 13 April 2025. However, Chaitra Purnima will be primarily observed on 12 April 2025.

• Brahma Muhurat for holy bath and charity: 4:29 AM to 5:14 AM
• Abhijit Muhurat (considered highly auspicious for rituals): 11:56 AM to 12:48 PM

Spiritual Significance and Rituals

Apart from traditional bathing and charity, devotees perform the Satyanarayan Puja, which involves reading or listening to the Satyanarayan Katha with family. Offering kheer (rice pudding), sweets, and fruits to Lord Vishnu is considered highly auspicious. Chanting mantras dedicated to Vishnu is also encouraged on this day.

Lord Vishnu Mantras

Om namo bhagavate vasudevaya

Om namo narayanaya

Why is the Chaitra Purnima Fast Observed?

According to Hindu beliefs and astrology, observing a fast on Purnima (full moon) brings several benefits:

• It is considered a special day dedicated to Lord Vishnu, Goddess Lakshmi, and Lord Shiva.
• Fasting on this day is believed to bring mental peace, spiritual strength, and familial harmony.
• The full moon symbolises abundance and prosperity.
• Observing the fast is said to calm the mind and purify the body.
• Worshipping Goddess Lakshmi on this day brings wealth and good health.
• It is believed to offer peace to the souls of ancestors.
• The fast is associated with ensuring lasting prosperity and peace in the home.

Chaitra Purnima, thus, marks not only a significant lunar event but also a spiritually charged day that encourages self-discipline, devotion, and reflection, setting a divine tone for the rest of the year.

(Disclaimer: The information provided is based on traditional beliefs and religious texts. News9 Live does not independently verify the religious significance of these rituals.)