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Introduction
The sacred full moon night of Ashwin Purnima (Sharad Purnima) is celebrated with great devotion as Kojagari Lakshmi Puja in Bengal, Assam, Odisha, and several parts of Eastern India. This auspicious festival is dedicated to Maa Mahalakshmi, the goddess of wealth, prosperity, and well-being. The very name “Kojagari” originates from the Sanskrit phrase “Ko Jāgarti?”, meaning “Who is awake?” It is believed that on this holy night, Goddess Lakshmi descends to the mortal world, wandering from house to house, asking “Who is awake?” and bestows blessings of fortune upon those who remain vigilant, devoted, and pure in heart.
This divine night is not merely about material prosperity, but also about the abundance of virtues, righteousness (dharma), and inner light.
The History and Origins of Kojagari Lakshmi
Kojagari Lakshmi Puja finds its origins in ancient agrarian society. Ashwin marks the end of monsoon and the beginning of harvest in India. The full moon of this month represents fertility, abundance, and the renewal of life. Thus, worship of Maa Lakshmi, the giver of prosperity, became deeply associated with this time.
In Vedic times, Sharad Purnima was considered the night when the moon showers nectar (amrita bindu) upon the earth. Scriptures mention that the moonlight on this night has special medicinal and spiritual properties. Gradually, this sacred full moon merged with the worship of Lakshmi as Kojagari Puja.
Mythological Stories of Kojagari Lakshmi
Several legends are associated with Kojagari Lakshmi, each revealing the compassion and justice of the Goddess:
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The Tale of the King and Queen
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Once there lived a pious king who lost his kingdom and wealth due to ill fortune. Reduced to poverty, he and his queen still maintained their devotion to Goddess Lakshmi. On one Kojagari night, the queen observed the night vigil (jāgaraṇa) and prayed with utmost faith. Maa Lakshmi appeared before them and blessed the royal couple with renewed fortune, restoring their kingdom and wealth. This story teaches that unwavering devotion, even in times of hardship, invokes divine blessings.
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Lakshmi’s Night Vigil
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According to popular belief, Lakshmi roams the earth on Ashwin Purnima night, asking, “Ko Jāgarti? – Who is awake?” Those who remain awake, worshipping her, receive blessings of prosperity. This is why devotees keep vigil throughout the night, singing hymns and offering prayers.
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The Story of the Poor Brahmin
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A humble Brahmin once lived in dire poverty. He observed Kojagari fast, staying awake the entire night, despite hunger and weakness. Pleased with his faith, Goddess Lakshmi granted him immense wealth and respect. This story reinforces that Lakshmi’s grace is earned not by riches, but by sincerity of devotion.
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Scriptural References
The mention of Lakshmi and Kojagari rituals can be found across various Hindu texts. Some key references include:
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Skanda Purana – Describes Lakshmi as Vishnupriya (beloved of Lord Vishnu) and emphasizes her worship during Sharad Purnima for wealth and prosperity.
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Padma Purana – Narrates stories of Lakshmi visiting homes at night, blessing the righteous who stay awake in her remembrance.
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Lakshmi Tantra (Pancharatra text) – Elaborates on various forms of Lakshmi and her role in bestowing both material wealth and spiritual merit.
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Brahma Vaivarta Purana – Highlights the importance of worshipping Lakshmi on full moon nights, especially in the month of Ashwin.
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Vishnu Purana – Connects Lakshmi with cosmic balance, harmony, and sustenance of the universe.
Myths and Clarifications
Over centuries, certain myths and misconceptions have surrounded Kojagari Lakshmi Puja:
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Myth 1: Lakshmi only blesses wealthy households.
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Clarification: Scriptures state that Lakshmi is pleased by devotion, cleanliness, and righteousness—not by material wealth. Even the poorest can receive her blessings.
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Myth 2: Staying awake without worship ensures prosperity.
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Clarification: The vigil is symbolic. It represents spiritual awareness, not just physical sleeplessness. Mere staying awake without prayer has no significance.
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Myth 3: Kojagari is only about wealth.
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Clarification: While material prosperity is a part of Lakshmi’s blessings, true wealth (śrī) includes virtues, health, peace, and family harmony.
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Rituals and Observances
Kojagari Lakshmi Puja is observed with devotion and simplicity:
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Alpona and Cleanliness: Homes are decorated with alpona (rangoli) made of rice flour, symbolizing purity and inviting the goddess.
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Lakshmi Idol or Kalash: A clay or metal idol of Maa Lakshmi, or a kalash representing her, is worshipped with flowers, fruits, and incense.
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Khir or Dudh Puli: Traditional offering of milk-based sweets, especially rice pudding (khir), is made as it is believed the moon showers nectar in the milk on this night.
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Night Vigil (Jagaran): Devotees stay awake all night, singing bhajans and reciting Lakshmi Ashtottara Shatanamavali (108 names of Lakshmi).
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Fasting: Some observe fast during the day, breaking it only after the midnight arati.
Impact in Today’s World
Even in the modern era, Kojagari Lakshmi Puja holds deep significance:
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Cultural Unity: In Bengal, every household—rich or poor—observes this puja, bringing communities together.
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Spiritual Awareness: The vigil reminds devotees to remain awake in life—not only physically, but spiritually—guarding against greed and ignorance.
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Economic Symbolism: In today’s age of business and commerce, invoking Lakshmi represents not just financial prosperity, but ethical dealings and honest earnings.
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Health Connection: Modern science recognizes the Sharad Purnima moonlight as beneficial, cooling, and rich in positive energy—echoing the ancient belief of amrita bindu.
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Women and Household Prosperity: Traditionally, women play the central role in Kojagari Puja, emphasizing their connection with nurturing, prosperity, and the well-being of families.
Conclusion
Kojagari Lakshmi Puja is not merely a festival of wealth—it is a festival of faith, purity, and vigilance. It teaches us that Goddess Lakshmi blesses not only with gold and grains, but also with virtues, wisdom, harmony, and peace. The essence of Kojagari night is simple: remain awake in devotion, live righteously, and welcome the divine mother with an open heart.
As the moonlight of Sharad Purnima bathes the world in silver radiance, may Maa Kojagari Lakshmi enter every home, filling lives with abundance, purity, and bliss.
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