Maghi Purnima 2024 (India): Magha Purnima, also known as Maghi Purnima in India, is a full moon that transpires during the month of Magha on the Hindu calendar. The event is scheduled for February 24 this year. A significant portion of the population observes a holiday in honor of Gautama Buddha, the religious leader and progenitor of Buddhism, while a great number of devotees pay homage to the moon. As illustrated in this article, Hindus throughout India observe this auspicious day in a variety of ways.
Maghi Purnima History
Adherents of the Hindu calendar view the Magha month as being the most significant. Devotees observe Maghi Purnima by fasting, bathing in sacred waters, donating to charitable causes, and reciting prayers to deities such as Hanuman and Vishnu. This sacred bath, which Hindus associate with rivers such as the Ganges (Ganga), Yamuna, Kaveri, and others, is considered to be extremely fortuitous. In addition, Hindu mythology asserts that on this day, Lord Vishnu dwells in the Ganga River and that even light contact with the water is extremely beneficial. This, along with the petitions offered on this day, virtually guarantees that their desires will be granted, according to the majority of devotees.
India’s populace exhibits regional variations in customs. An annual ‘float’ festival is organized in the southern state of Tamil Nadu. Floats bearing adorned idols of their respective deities, Meenakshi and Lord Sundeshwara, are affixed. An annual Magha Mela (a sizable religious festival) is organized in North India, specifically in cities such as Allahabad and Prayag, where three main rivers converge: the Ganges (Ganga), Yamuna, and the fabled Sarasvati River.
In addition to its religious significance, this day is also significant from an astrological standpoint. The moon orbits the Cancer constellation as the sun transits the Capricorn zodiac sign. It is said that the sacred dip will eliminate any issues that may arise about the sun and moon, and the month itself will assist individuals in acclimating to the cyclical nature of the seasons. Individuals muster the fortitude and resolve to confront the upcoming season.
An additional factor contributing to the significance of Maghi Purnima is the Buddhist belief that Lord Buddha foretold his imminent demise on this day. According to legend, an earthquake occurred immediately after he uttered those words, as if the Earth itself were jolted by the news. His devotees assert that the Earth trembled precisely in this manner at the time of Buddha’s birth, enlightenment (at which point he assumed the role of the world’s most renowned religious leader), and death. During this day, Buddhists engage in ceremonial observances, offer offerings to the unfortunate, and recite prayers to Buddha. Numerous Buddhist villages throughout India host celebrations and festivals in honor of Buddha.
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FAQs on Maghi Purnima 2024 (India)
Why does Maghi Purnima occur?
This day is observed as a sacred occasion in honor of the moon and deities such as Hanuman and Vishnu.
Is Maghi Purnima observed as a federal holiday?
While this day is not officially observed as a holiday in India, employees in Bangladesh (where Bangladeshi Hindus observe it) may elect to take an extra day of leave on that particular day. However, offices and enterprises continue to operate.
What year does Maghi Purnima occur in 2021?
In 2021, Maghi Purnima occurred on February 27. The date of occurrence is February 16, 2022, according to multiple websites.
Maghi Purnima 2024 (India) Activities
Contribute to a charitable cause
An auspicious occasion would be deficient without a modest act of philanthropy towards those in need. Perform a positive deed as well. Donate necessary items to the benefit of a charitable organization of your choosing.
Embrace several Buddhist principles.
Maintain a tranquil existence. Remain composed. Remain centered. Develop your mindfulness. Above all else, live with an abundant heart of compassion for others.
Explore a different culture
Develop your knowledge of India and its festivals. It could be Diwali or Maghi Purnima, for all I know. Consider researching their festivals, viewing films and videos that depict their celebrations, and if you wish, incorporating some of their festivities into your own.
MAGHI PURNIMA DATES
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | February 24 | Saturday |
| 2025 | February 15 | Saturday |
| 2026 | February 1 | Sunday |
