Poornima

Poornima is a Sanskrit word that translates to full moon in English. In Hinduism and other related cultures, the term poornima refers to the night when the moon is fully radiant and visible in the sky. This astronomical event occurs when the moon is in its eighteenth day from the new moon and begins its waning phase. Poornima is considered significant in various festivals and rituals across the world.

In Hinduism, Poornima is linked to several important deities and rituals. For instance, it's associated with Goddess Lakshmi, the Hindu goddess of wealth and prosperity, and is often celebrated with fulsome worship and rituals to invoke her blessings. The day is also connected to many sacred events in Hindu festivals, including Makar Sankranti, Vaikunta Ekadasi, and Maha Shivaratri.

Poornima festivals are observed and celebrated with great fervor across India and parts of South Asia. People celebrate the occasion through various activities such as prayers, music performances, and festivals featuring traditional dances. Festive lights, decorations, and fireworks are integral to making these celebrations more vibrant and memorable.

In Vaidik and certain regional traditions, Poornima has been assigned different auspicious times and significance. Hindu astrologers adhere to specific prescriptions for performing rituals on these nights, under auspicious timing, to accrue spiritual growth, money gains, and protection and to ward off malevolent beings.

Poornima constitutes an important and pure phase in the lunar cycle and does have been noted by spiritual leaders with profound importance.