Sharad Purnima — The Night of Rasa Leela

On the autumn full moon night, Krishna plays his flute in the forests of Vrindavana. The gopis — hearing the call — abandon their houses, husbands, and duties, and run to him. Krishna multiplies himself so that each gopi dances with Krishna alone. The five chapters of Bhagavata 10.29–33 are called the heart of the text. Theologically: the soul's irresistible pull toward the divine, dharma surpassed by prema, and Krishna's multiplication as the principle that the Infinite is available fully to each seeker.

On Ashwin Shukla Purnima, also known as Kojagari Purnima, it is widely believed that Goddess Lakshmi descends to Earth and roams, asking "Ko Jagarti?" (Who is awake?). Devotees observe the Kojagara Vrata by staying awake, worshipping Lakshmi, and lighting lamps to receive her blessings of wealth and prosperity.

On Sharad Purnima, the moon is believed to be at its fullest, shining with all sixteen phases (Kalas). It is said that on this night, the moon's rays shower Amrita (divine nectar) upon the Earth, which is considered to have healing and beneficial properties.

The Satyanarayana Vrat, dedicated to Lord Satyanarayana, a benevolent form of Lord Vishnu, is observed on various Purnima tithis, including Ashwin Shukla Purnima. Devotees perform puja and listen to the Satyanarayana Katha to seek blessings for happiness, peace, and prosperity.

Probarona Purnima, also known as Ashwini Purnima, marks the conclusion of the three-month-long Vassa (rainy retreat) for Buddhist monks. During this ceremony, monks confess any shortcomings or offenses committed during the retreat and seek atonement from one another, fostering humility and purity within the monastic community. It is also associated with the legend of Buddha returning to Earth after teaching Abhidharma to his mother in Tavatimsa Heaven. Buddhists celebrate by offering prayers, food to monks, observing precepts, and releasing sky lanterns.