Mumbai: Chaitra Purnima, the first full moon of the Hindu New Year, holds immense religious and spiritual significance. It marks a time of renewal, devotion, and auspicious beginnings in the Hindu calendar. Observed during the month of Chaitra, this sacred occasion is dedicated to worshipping Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi for prosperity, peace, and the fulfilment of desires.
This year, Chaitra Purnima will be celebrated on 12 April 2025, and it also coincides with Hanuman Jayanti—the birth anniversary of Lord Hanuman. Devotees across India will engage in special rituals, fasting, river baths, and donations to mark this powerful day. The full moon is believed to enhance spiritual energy, making it a favourable time for prayer, meditation, and seeking divine blessings.
According to the Hindu Panchang, the Chaitra Purnima tithi begins on 12 April at 3:21 AM and ends on 13 April at 5:51 AM. However, based on the sunrise (Udaya Tithi) rule, Chaitra Purnima will be observed on Saturday, 12 April 2025.
Begin the day by taking a ritual bath during Brahma Muhurat in a sacred river. If not possible, mix a few drops of Ganga water in your bath at home. Resolve to observe a fast, and then set up a sacred space by placing idols or pictures of Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi on a red cloth.
Offer sandalwood paste, kumkum, turmeric, rice, flowers, fruits, and especially kheer (sweet rice pudding). Light a ghee lamp and chant Vishnu mantras or the Kanakdhara Stotra. Conclude with an aarti of both deities to complete the morning rituals.
As Hanuman Jayanti also falls on Chaitra Purnima, devotees should worship Lord Hanuman with equal devotion. Offer vermillion and jasmine oil, and present boondi or besan laddoos. Recite the Hanuman Chalisa and Sundar Kand. In the evening, after moonrise, offer Arghya (a sacred water offering) to the moon using water, milk, rice, and flowers.
It is considered highly auspicious to donate clothes, grains, money, or educational materials to priests or the needy. Donating sesame seeds, food, and dakshina (monetary offerings) is believed to wash away sins and bring peace and blessings.
Chaitra Purnima symbolises the culmination of the first month of the Hindu year. It is not only a spiritually charged time for devotion and reflection but also heralds the start of Vaishakh Maas, regarded as the most virtuous month in Hinduism. The full moon represents completeness, clarity of mind, and emotional balance—making it ideal for meditation, mantra chanting, and inner purification.
(Disclaimer: The information provided is based on traditional beliefs and religious texts. News9 Live does not independently verify the religious significance of these rituals.)
