Sharad Purnima 2026: When to Offer Kheer - October 25 or 26?

Significance of Sharad Purnima

Sharad Purnima holds great importance in Hindu tradition. This festival involves worshipping the moon, honoring Goddess Lakshmi, and placing kheer under the moonlight. There is some confusion this year regarding whether to place kheer on the night of October 25 or October 26. According to the lunar calendar, the night of October 25, 2026, is considered the appropriate time for this ritual.

When Does the Full Moon Phase Begin and End?

As per the lunar calendar, the full moon phase in the month of Ashwin will commence on October 25, 2026, at 11:55 AM and conclude on October 26 at 9:41 AM. Therefore, the full moon will be observed on the night of October 25. Additionally, since the full moon will still be present at sunrise on October 26, religious activities such as bathing and charity can be performed on that day.

Timing for Offering Kheer on Sharad Purnima

Traditionally, after offering prayers to the moon on Sharad Purnima, kheer is placed under the moonlight. In Delhi, the moonrise is expected around 5 PM on October 25. However, since the sun will not have set by that time, it will be more convenient to place the kheer under the moonlight later in the evening.

According to religious customs, kheer can be placed under the moonlight after 8 PM on October 25. This timing is suggested for convenience and is not a strict religious requirement. Families who have the tradition of staying awake until midnight to worship Goddess Lakshmi can perform their rituals according to their beliefs.

Why Place Kheer on the Night of October 25 Despite Full Moon on October 26?

The confusion arises from the different rules regarding the lunar date and nighttime rituals. Many religious vows and ceremonies are conducted based on the date present at sunrise. However, for Sharad Purnima, the nighttime rituals of moon worship and Kojagari Lakshmi Puja hold special significance.

The full moon will be present on the night of October 25, and it will end at 9:41 AM on October 26. Thus, the night of October 25 is deemed suitable for moon worship and placing kheer, while bathing and charity can be performed during the full moon on the morning of October 26.

Should Kheer Be Left Under Moonlight All Night?

It is believed that the moon is full of sixteen kalas on Sharad Purnima. The tradition involves placing kheer under the moonlight and later consuming it as prasad. However, there is no scientific evidence to support that leaving kheer under moonlight imparts special medicinal properties.

When placing kheer under the moonlight, it is advisable to use a clean container and cover it with a fine mesh to prevent dust or insects from contaminating it. Additionally, leaving kheer made from milk at room temperature overnight is not safe, so it is better to refrigerate it after a symbolic period under the moonlight.

When to Consume Kheer?

Traditionally, kheer can be offered to the moon on the night of October 25. Many families then consume it as prasad the following morning, October 26. However, it is essential to ensure that the kheer has been stored safely and has not spoiled before consumption.

Kheer on October 25, Bathing and Charity on October 26

According to the lunar calendar, the night of October 25, 2026, is preferred for placing kheer. This night allows for moon worship, honoring Goddess Lakshmi, and offering kheer. Meanwhile, since the full moon will still be present until 9:41 AM on October 26, bathing and charity can be performed on that day. Therefore, keep in mind to place kheer on the night of October 25 and perform bathing and charity on the morning of October 26.

Note: Religious beliefs and rituals may vary across different traditions. It is advisable to confirm the exact timing for rituals with your local lunar calendar or a knowledgeable person.