Kojagara, also known as Kumar Purnima, Kojagara Purnima, Navanna Purnima, Sharad Purnima, or Kaumudi Purnima, is a vibrant religious festival celebrated predominantly in the Mithila region of India.
This festival falls on the full moon day of the Hindu lunar month of Ashwin, which usually occurs between September and October, marking the end of the monsoon season.
Kojagara is celebrated with much fervor in South Asian regions of Nepal-India including Bihar, Jharkhand West Bengal, and Odisha, each adding its unique touch to the festivities.
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Kojagara Puja 2024: Date and Significance
In 2024, the Kojagara festival will commence today, October 16 at 11:42 PM and continue until 12:32 AM. This year, Kojagara holds particular significance as devotees worship Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity. The festival is especially meaningful for newlywed couples, who receive blessings from family and friends, further cementing their place in their new homes.
Celebrations
The Kojagara festival is characterized by its rich rituals and culinary traditions, with Makhana (fox nuts) taking center stage. On this auspicious day, people prepare various delicacies from Makhana, symbolizing fertility and abundance.
The festival is traditionally marked by the worship of Grihalakshmi, the goddess of the household, and offerings made to her are believed to bring prosperity and happiness to the family.
New Daughter-in-Law Rituals
A unique aspect of Kojagara is the celebration of the newly married daughter-in-law. It is customary for the bride’s family to observe a sweet Shravani fast, sending gifts to the groom’s side, including Makhana, Paan (betel leaves), sweets, fruits, clothes, and ornaments.
Once these items arrive at the groom’s home, they are placed before the family’s Kul Devta (family deity) and are later distributed as Prasad (sacred offerings) within the community.
Timing and Rituals
This year, the arrival of the groom’s family for the Kojagara celebrations will take place during the Pradosh time, after 7:10 PM, extending the festivities throughout the night. Families gather to celebrate, share meals, and partake in the joy of the season, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere filled with love and laughter.
History
The roots of Kojagara can be traced back to the era of the Ramayana, where it is said that the festival originated from a celebration initiated by Mother Janaki Sita, who sent the Kojagara offerings from her abode to Lord Shri Ram in Ayodhya.
This historical context adds depth to the festival, linking it to themes of devotion and familial bonds that continue to resonate with participants today.
Summary, Kojagara is more than just a festival; it is a celebration of love, family, and community. On this occasion people gather to honor Goddess Lakshmi and celebrate the blessings of abundance and prosperity, the spirit of Kojagara shines through in the vibrant customs and traditions of the Mithila region and beyond.
