Pausha Purnima
Also called: Shakambhari Purnima
Pausha Purnima marks the conclusion of the nine-day Shakambhari Navratri and celebrates the manifestation of Devi Shakambhari, the goddess of vegetation who relieved an ancient drought. It also signals the commencement of the sacred Magha Snan pilgrimage period at Prayagraj.
Key facts
- Paksha
- Shukla Paksha
- Lunar month
- Pausha
- Deities
- Goddess Shakambhari, Lord Satyanarayana, Sun God (Surya)
The story
The Devi Mahatmya recounts that during a catastrophic hundred-year drought caused by the demon Durgamasura, living beings wept for sustenance. Devi manifested as Shakambhari, bearing fresh greens, fruits, grains, and roots from her own body, nourishing all life and defeating the demon.
Practices
- Distributing fresh vegetables, fruits, and food to the hungry
- Commencing the month-long Kalpavas vow at Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj
- Offering charity of warm clothing and blankets to the needy
Regional variations
- Major fairs and mass bathing rituals take place at Prayagraj, Haridwar, and Varanasi
Common questions
- What is Kalpavas?
- Kalpavas is a month-long spiritual retreat observed from Pausha Purnima to Magha Purnima along the riverbanks of Prayagraj, involving daily river bathing, prayer, and simple living.