Sharad Purnima 2023: In the realm of astrology, eclipses hold immense significance. The final lunar eclipse of the year is set to grace us on October 28, coinciding with Sharad Purnima. Notably, this celestial event marks a rarity, occurring on the auspicious day of Sharad Purnima only once every 30 years. This will also be the concluding eclipse of the year, though it won't be visible in India, rendering its Sutak period irrelevant. The effects of this eclipse are expected to ripple through the lives of people, impacting not only the nation but also the world at large.

As per astrological calculations, the lunar eclipse will commence at midnight on the 28th of October and conclude at 2:25 am. Ancient scriptures offer guidelines for this specific time, emphasizing particular precautions, particularly for expectant mothers, who are believed to be more susceptible to the influence of negative forces during an eclipse.

Sharad Purnima 2023, a significant date in the Hindu calendar, is renowned for its uniqueness. It is the only day in the year when the moon is said to radiate all sixteen Kala, each associated with various human qualities. This combination of sixteen Kala is believed to form a complete and perfect human personality. Lord Krishna is celebrated as the embodiment of all sixteen Kala, while Lord Rama possessed only twelve.

Consequently, the worship of God Chandra on Sharad Purnima is held in high regard. Newly married women, committing to a year of Purnimasi fasting, commence their fast on this day. In Gujarat, Sharad Purnima is more commonly referred to as Sharad Poonam.

On this special day, the moon not only shines with all sixteen Kala but is also believed to emanate healing rays that nurture the body and soul. The moon's rays on Sharad Purnima are thought to be infused with nectar. To harness this divine occurrence, a beloved Indian dessert, Rice-Kheer, made from cow's milk, rice, and sugar, is prepared and left out under the moonlight throughout the night. In the morning, this Moon-energized Rice-Kheer is consumed and shared among family members as Prasad.

In the Brij region, Sharad Purnima is also known as Raas Purnima. Legend has it that on this day, Lord Krishna engaged in the Maha-Raas, a divine dance of love. Upon hearing the enchanting melodies of Krishna's flute, the Gopis of Vrindavan secretly left their homes and families to dance with Krishna all through the night. It was on this night that Lord Krishna mystically extended time, creating several versions of himself to accompany each Gopi.

In various regions, Sharad Purnima is referred to as Kojagara Purnima, observed with the Kojagara Vrat throughout the day, also known as Kaumudi Vrat.

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