Purnima Vrat
पूर्णिमा व्रत
Purnima Vrat (पूर्णिमा व्रत) is the fast kept on the full moon day of each month, sacred to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi. The full moon is associated with completeness, calm and prosperity. Many keep the fast and perform the Satyanarayan Katha on Purnima for the fulfilment of wishes, peace of mind, and the blessings of wealth and harmony. Certain Purnimas — Guru, Sharad, Kartik and Buddha Purnima — are especially sacred.
Fasting Rules & Vidhi
Wake early, bathe (ideally in or with holy water), and take a sankalp for the fast.
Keep a day-long fast — phalahar (fruits, milk) is allowed; some take one sattvic meal after the moon is seen.
Worship Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi, or perform the Satyanarayan Vrat Katha and puja.
Chant "Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya" or the Vishnu Sahasranama, and the Lakshmi mantra.
In the evening, offer arghya to the full moon and donate (white items, rice, milk).
Break the fast after the moon darshan, taking the panchamrit and sheera (sooji halwa) prasad.
Significance & Story
The Purnima (full moon) symbolises fullness, light and the height of lunar energy, which calms the mind and is held to be spiritually charged. It is sacred to Vishnu and Lakshmi, and the Satyanarayan Katha performed on this day is among the most popular vrats for prosperity, gratitude and the fulfilment of vows. Guru Purnima, Buddha Purnima, Sharad Purnima and Kartik Purnima are major festivals on this tithi.