Shakambhari Purnima: Celebration of Nourishing Form of Goddess Durga

Shakambhari Purnima is a holy festival observed by the Hindus to commemorate Goddess Shakambhari, who is an incarnation of the powerful and benevolent mother goddess Durga. This festival is celebrated on the day of the Pausha full moon, that is, either in the month of December or January, which is also the conclusion of Shakambhari Navaratri. This day is of considerable significance for those who pray for Shakambhari Devi for safeguarding their life.

Goddess Shakambhari is also celebrated as the goddess of produce or vegetation. “Shakambhari” means “she who bears vegetables.” She is also regarded as the one who brought salvation to the universe by developing fruits, vegetables, and herbs during the drought that had struck the world, thereby keeping the entire universe alive.

The Story Behind Shakambhari Purnima

According to ancient texts, a prolonged era of starvation was caused on the earth. Rivers were dried up, and agricultural production was severely impacted, causing suffering among the people. Noticing this situation, Goddess Durga took the incarnation of Shakambhari Devi. Accordingly, she could generate vegetables, grains, and herbal plants from her body. These satisfied the hungry people.

Due to this divine event, Goddess Shakambhari is also referred to by the name Annapurna, which means the provider of Food. Shakambhari Purnima celebrates the significance of being grateful for Nature’s gifts, including Food.

How Shakambhari Purnima is Celebrated

On this sacred day, the devotees get up very early in the morning, take a sacred bath, and then worship Goddess Shakambhari with utmost fervor. Special pujas are also held in their homes and temples. Vegetables, fruits, greens, and raw or plain eating stuffs are only presented to the goddess. Nothing should be lavish.

Fasting on Shakambhari Purnima or eating a Light Satvik Diet is observed by many. Charity is also an important aspect of this day. Giving away Food, Vegetables, or Grains is a very auspicious act that fetches Blessings of God.

In some areas, especially South India, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh, the Shakambhari Devi temples observe special festivals. Devotees flock to temples for getting good health, prosperity, and relief from troubles.

Religious Significance of the Festival

Shakambhari Purnima has immense religious significance. It implies thatFood is holy and should never be tossed. This day promotes living a life of austerity, Being grateful, and Being kind to each other. Taking the worship of Goddess Shakambhari, one can get rid of Scarcity, Money troubles, and Health anxieties.

The full moon on this day is a representation of completeness or balanced state. Devotees believe that praying on Shakambhari Purnima leads to a peaceful state of mind as well as balanced family life.

A Day of Gratitude and Divine Care

Shakambhari Purnima is more than a ritual. It is an occasion to recall the care that is being taken by the Gods for the universe. This is a means by which one can become a part of something called kindness. This is a festival that celebrates the importance of responsibility. Observing this day with dedication helps to strengthen one’s faith and fill their life with feelings of contentment and harmony.