Magha Purnima 2024: Know Auspicious Timing For Puja And Sacrifice

One of the most significant and auspicious months for Hindus is the Magha month. It is believed that during this time, the gods took the form of humans and descended to Earth to bathe in Prayag (Allahabad) and offer donations to the needy. Therefore, bathing in the Ganges on the auspicious Magha Purnima, also known as Maghi Purnima tithi, is said to fulfil wishes and aid in attaining salvation. As per the Hindu calendar, Magha Purnima is a full moon day occurring in the month of Magha, typically falling in January or February, coinciding with the renowned Kumbh Mela and Magha Mela festivals. However, there has been some confusion regarding which day Magha Purnima will be celebrated – Friday or Saturday.

As per the Drik Panchang, Magha Purnima falls on February 24. The Purnima Tithi begins at 03:30 PM on February 23 and ends at 05:59 PM on February 24. Astrologer from Kashi, Chakrapani Bhatt, confirmed that Magh Purnima will be observed on Saturday, February 24. On this day, people will partake in a holy bath and offer donations. The day before the celebration, i.e., Friday, February 23, devotees will observe the Magh Purnima fast. The subsequent day, around 6 PM, the Magha Purnima Tithi will conclude, marking the beginning of the Pratipada Tithi of Krishna Paksha of Phalgun.

As for the auspicious time for bathing and donating on Magha Purnima, according to the Kashi astrologer, activities can commence from Brahma Muhurta, which spans from 05:11 AM to 06:02 PM.

Regarding donations on the auspicious tithi of Magha Purnima, Pandit Chakrapani Bhatt recommends contributing items associated with the moon. Beneficial donations include rice, white clothes, white flowers, pearls, silver coins, milk, sugar and kheer.

For worshipping the Moon on the day before Magha Purnima, when the Magha Purnima fast will be observed on February 23, the moonrise is expected at 05:17 PM. Devotees fasting on this day should worship the Moon after its rise, offering white flowers, milk, Akshat, white sandalwood, batasha, or kheer as offerings.