Kojagrat Purnima is also known as Sharad Purnima. It is a significant Hindu festival celebrated with great devotion and enthusiasm in Nepal. The festival is held on the full moon day of the Hindu month of Ashwin (September-October). It marks the final day of the Dashain celebrations. Kojagrat Purnima is celebrated as a time of prayer, prosperity, and family reunions, with special customs that make it memorable for devotees.
Meaning Behind Kojagrat Purnima
The word “Kojagrat” comes from the Sanskrit phrase “Ko Jagrati,” which means “Who is awake?” According to legend, on this auspicious night, Goddess Laxmi, a goddess of wealth and prosperity, descends to Earth. She then visited the houses of those who remained awake and loyal, showering them with good fortune. This is why many families remain up all night praying for blessings, wealth, and happiness.
Kojagrat Purnima is also celebrated as a night of reflection and awareness. On this day people express appreciation for the wealth, they have received and pray for future success and harmony in their lives.
Rituals and Celebrations
The festival of Kojagrat Purnima is marked by various rituals. Every ritual aims to seek Goddess Laxmi’s blessings and ensure prosperity. Here’s a look at some of the important customs celebrated today:
- Laxmi Puja
One of the most important traditions of Kojagrat Purnima is the worship of Goddess Laxmi. Families clean their houses and decorate the puja places with flowers, lights, and vibrant rangoli decorations. They hold a Laxmi Puja, presenting fruits, sweets, and money in hopes of receiving her blessings for prosperity and success in the following year. It is believed that a bright lit and tidy stay would attract the goddess.
- Staying Awake All Night
Due to the festival’s focus on alertness, many individuals stay awake all night praying and thinking. Some people do devotional singing, while others burn oil lamps (diyo) to make their houses bright and welcoming for Goddess Laxmi. The night is regarded sacred, and those who stay up are said to be rewarded with fortune.
- Full Moon Night Traditions
The full moon night of Kojagrat Purnima is regarded as extremely auspicious. In certain locations, people bake special sweets and kheer (rice pudding) beneath the moonlight, thinking that the moon’s rays enrich the food with medicinal virtues. It is also a time for family reunions when loved ones get together to celebrate the celebration with joy and thankfulness.
Kojagrat Purnima and Cultural Significance in Nepal
In Nepal, Kojagrat Purnima is closely connected with the Dashain celebration. It is held on the final day of Dashain, known as Purnima. People give sacrifices to various deities, put tika, and give blessings to family members. Kojagrat Purnima is a time for reflection, thanks, and the continuation of customs passed down through generations.
Nepalese families often mark the night by burning oil lights in front of their homes, brightening their surroundings with energy and joy. This represents the light of wealth entering their lives through Goddess Laxmi’s blessings. Temples devoted to the goddess draw vast numbers of followers seeking blessing.
The Legend of Kojagrat Purnima
According to a popular legend, the king once lost all of his wealth because of his poor judgments. His wife, a devotee of Goddess Laxmi, stayed awake on Kojagrat Purnima night, praying for prosperity. The goddess was pleased with her dedication and bestowed vast wealth on the king, restoring his kingdom’s fortunes.
The story has since become a symbol of the celebration, teaching people the ideals of dedication, endurance, and faith.
Why Kojagrat Purnima Matters Today
Kojagrat Purnima is more than just a religious celebration; it is a time of reflection and a new beginning. In modern times, the event serves as a reminder to stay firm, express gratitude, and seek balance in life. We welcome Goddess Laxmi into our homes, at the same time celebrating the values of hard work, dedication, and diligence.
For many, Kojagrat Purnima is an opportunity to reconnect with family, revive traditions, and embrace the future with hope and positivity.
Conclusion
Kojagrat Purnima has a particular place in the hearts of people in Nepal. It is a celebration of prosperity, diligence, and the strength of dedication. Whether through Laxmi Puja, staying awake all night, or spending time with loved ones, the event combines traditional and modern values. Families light candles and pray for a good and successful future, blessed by the goddess of wealth.
May this Kojagrat Purnima bring peace, prosperity, and happiness to all!
Also read: Alamdevi Temple, A Cultural and Spiritual Site
Image source: Prasta Khabar
