Purnima Tithi, which is the full moon day in the Hindu lunar calendar, marks the culmination of the bright half of the lunar month. It’s a day considered very auspicious in Hindu culture.

After Purnima Tithi, the moon begins to wane, marking the start of the Krishna Paksha, the darker fortnight of the lunar month. This phase lasts for about 15 days until the next full moon (Purnima) occurs.

Additionally, in the Purnimanta system of the Hindu lunar calendar, the end of Purnima Tithi signifies the beginning of a new month, starting with Pratipada Tithi, the first lunar day of the month. This transition is significant as it indicates the start of a new cycle in the lunar calendar, with new festivals, rituals, and celebrations to follow in the coming days.

In summary, Purnima Tithi is a highly significant day, symbolizing the full moon, the beginning of the waning phase of the moon, and the start of a new month in the Hindu lunar calendar. It’s a time for reflection, celebration, and the commencement of new activities and observances in Hindu culture.

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Rituals and Observances on Purnima:

1. Fasting: On Purnima, many Hindus observe fasts as a form of spiritual discipline. They abstain from consuming food or certain types of food for the entire day or during specific hours. Fasting is believed to purify the body and mind, and it is seen as a way to attain spiritual strength and self-discipline.
2. Prayer and Worship: Devotees often visit temples and perform special prayers and rituals dedicated to deities associated with the full moon. Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu, and Goddess Lakshmi are among the deities worshipped during Purnima. These prayers and rituals are expressions of devotion and gratitude, seeking blessings for spiritual growth, prosperity, and well-being.
3. Charity: Giving alms to the needy and performing acts of charity are considered auspicious on Purnima. It is believed that acts of generosity on this day can bring blessings and positive karma. Charity is seen as a way to express compassion and contribute to the welfare of others in society.
4. Bathing in Sacred Rivers: Taking a dip in holy rivers or sacred bodies of water during Purnima is a common practice among devout Hindus. It is believed that bathing in these sacred waters can cleanse one’s sins and purify the soul. People often perform rituals and prayers before and after taking the holy dip as a form of spiritual purification and renewal.
5. Moon Gazing: Many people spend time outdoors during Purnima to admire the beauty of the full moon. Moongazing is considered serene and meditative, allowing individuals to connect with nature and reflect on the cyclical nature of life. The full moon’s radiant presence symbolizes illumination, enlightenment, and inner peace.

Significance of Purnima:

1. Spiritual Renewal: Purnima is regarded as a time for spiritual renewal and growth. It symbolizes the fullness and completeness of life, encouraging individuals to reflect on their spiritual journey and strive for inner fulfilment.
2. Auspiciousness: Purnima is believed to be an auspicious day for initiating new endeavors, embarking on journeys, and seeking blessings for success and prosperity. It is considered a favorable time to start fresh and pursue goals with renewed energy and optimism.
3. Festival Celebrations: Several festivals are celebrated on Purnima, each with its own unique rituals and customs. Guru Purnima, Raksha Bandhan, Sharad Purnima, and Buddha Purnima are among the festivals observed with great fervor and devotion across India and other parts of the world.
4. Astrological Importance: In Vedic astrology, Purnima is associated with positive energy and is considered an ideal time for performing rituals, prayers, and spiritual practices. The alignment of celestial bodies during Purnima is believed to enhance the potency of spiritual activities and facilitate inner transformation.

Purnima Dates & Timings – 2025

These dates and timings are based on the Hindu lunar calendar and are significant for various religious observances and festivals. For more detailed information, you can refer to the Drik Panchang website.

What are the different types of Purnima?

1. Chaitra Purnima: Falling in the Hindu lunar month of Chaitra (March–April), this Purnima marks the culmination of Chaitra Navratri, a nine-day festival dedicated to Goddess Durga, and is significant for followers of Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva.

2. Vaishakha Purnima: Celebrated in the Hindu month of Vaishakha (April–May), Vaishakha Purnima, also known as Buddha Purnima, commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and death of Gautama Buddha, the founder of Buddhism. It is a day of reflection, meditation, and spreading love and kindness.

3. Jyeshtha Purnima: Falling in the month of Jyeshtha (May–June), this Purnima is celebrated as Vat Purnima or Vat Savitri Vrat. Married women observe fasts and perform rituals for the well-being and longevity of their husbands. It honours the bond between spouses and is marked by prayers and rituals.

4. Ashadha Purnima: Occurring in the month of Ashadha (June–July), Ashadha Purnima marks the end of the four-month period known as Chaturmas, during which devotees intensify their spiritual practices. It is a time for reflection, worship, and seeking blessings for spiritual growth.

5. Shravana Purnima: Falling in the month of Shravana (July–August), Shravana Purnima is celebrated as Raksha Bandhan, a festival that celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters. Sister’s tie rakhi, a sacred thread, on their brothers’ wrists, symbolizing love, protection, and mutual respect.

6. Bhadrapada Purnima: Occurring in the month of Bhadrapada (August–September), Bhadrapada Purnima is known for the celebration of festivals like Krishna Janmashtami, marking the birth of Lord Krishna, and the harvest festival of Onam in Kerala. It is a time of joy, festivities, and gratitude for abundance.

7. Ashwin Purnima: Falling in the month of Ashwin (September–October), Ashwin Purnima is celebrated as Sharad Purnima. It is associated with the harvest season and is celebrated with various cultural and religious festivities, including fasting, prayers, and community gatherings.

8. Kartik Purnima: Celebrated in the month of Kartik (October–November), Kartik Purnima is considered highly auspicious. It marks the end of the Kartik month and the conclusion of the Kartik Snan, a holy bathing ritual performed by devotees in sacred rivers. It is a time for spiritual purification and seeking blessings for prosperity and well-being.

9. Margashirsha Purnima: Falling in the month of Margashirsha (November–December), Margashirsha Purnima is significant for various rituals and ceremonies performed by devotees to seek blessings and divine grace. It is a time for devotion, prayer, and introspection.

10. Pausha Purnima: Occurring in the month of Pausha (December–January), Pausha Purnima is considered auspicious for spiritual practices and acts of charity. It is a time for selflessness, compassion, and generosity towards others.

11. Magha Purnima: Celebrated in the month of Magha (January–February), Magha Purnima is observed as the Maghi Purnima. It holds significance in various religious traditions, with devotees taking holy baths and performing rituals for spiritual purification. It is a time for spiritual renewal and seeking divine blessings.

12. Phalgun Purnima: Falling in the month of Phalgun (February–March), Phalgun Purnima is celebrated as Holi, the festival of colours. It marks the end of the winter season and the onset of spring, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil, love, and the arrival of new beginnings.

Each Purnima and its associated festivals reflect the rich cultural heritage and spiritual traditions of Hinduism, fostering a sense of unity, devotion, and celebration among devotees across different regions and communities.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Purnima Tithis of 2025 offer a structured guide for spiritual observances and cultural celebrations throughout the year. Each full moon day, from Pausha Purnima in January to Margashirsha Purnima in December, holds unique significance, aligning with various festivals and rituals in the Hindu calendar.

These dates are not only markers of lunar phases but also opportunities for devotees to engage in fasting, meditation, and charitable acts, thereby fostering spiritual growth and community harmony. By observing these auspicious days, individuals can deepen their connection with cultural traditions and spiritual practices.