Purnima Satyanarayan Puja
Also called: Full Moon Satyanarayana Vrat
The classical, recurring monthly performance of the vrata on the full moon night. The fullness of the moon reflects the fullness of truth, making it the most meritorious cadence for sustained household peace.
Key facts
- Paksha
- Shukla Paksha
- Lunar month
- Occurs on the Purnima of every lunar month
- Deities
- Lord Satyanarayana, Goddess Lakshmi
The story
The second chapter of the Skanda Purana katha narrates how the impoverished Brahmin Shatananda of Kashi and an honest woodcutter were instructed in the Purnima puja, overcoming extreme destitution through faith and charitable sharing.
Practices
- Conducting the puja at sunset as the full moon rises
- Inviting extended family, neighbors, and friends to listen to the katha
- Offering white and yellow flowers, betel leaves, and bananas
Regional variations
- Observed as a monthly family tradition across thousands of Indian homes
Common questions
- Why is evening preferred for the puja?
- Evening allows the full moon to rise, and facilitates family members and working neighbors to assemble peacefully to hear the story.
Types of Shri Satyanarayan Puja
- Purnima Satyanarayan PujaOccurs on the Purnima of every lunar month
- Sankranti Satyanarayan PujaOccurs on the day of solar transit (Sankranti)
- Naimittika Satyanarayan PujaOccasion-dependent