Maghi Purnima

History of Maghi Purnima

Hindus consider the Magha month to be the most significant of all the months in the Hindu calendar. While celebrating Maghi Purnima, devotees fast, take a dip in holy waters, make donations to charitable causes, and offer prayers to gods like Vishnu and Hanuman. Hindus believe this holy bath, taken in certain rivers like the Ganges (Ganga), Yamuna, Kaveri, and so on, is very providential. Hindu mythology also states that Lord Vishnu resides in the river Ganga on this day, and even touching the waters can be very beneficial to people. That plus the prayers being offered up on this day make their wishes almost certain to come true, believe most devotees.

People across India have varied customs across regions. The southern state of Tamil Nadu hosts a special ‘float’ festival each year. Decorated idols of their gods, Meenakshi and Lord Sundeshwara, are mounted on floats. North India (cities like Allahabad and Prayag) holds a Magha Mela (a large religious fair) annually at the confluence of three major rivers — Ganges (Ganga), Yamuna, and the mythical Sarasvati River.

Apart from the religious significance, this day is also important in regard to astrology. As the sun moves to the Capricorn sign, the moon moves into the Cancer constellation. The holy dip is said to negate all problems arising with the sun and the moon, and the month itself helps people adjust to changing seasons. People find strength and power to face the next season.

Another reason Maghi Purnima is so important — followers of Buddhism believe Lord Buddha announced his impending death on this day. Legend says there was an earthquake as soon as he said the words, as though the Earth itself was shaken up by this news. His followers believe the Earth shook just this way when Buddha was born, when he received enlightenment (became the religious leader the world knows), and when he passed away. On this day, Buddhists conduct religious ceremonies, prayers are made to Buddha, and offerings are given to the unfortunate. Multiple Buddhist villages across India organize fairs and events to celebrate Buddha.

Maghi Purnima timeline

5th to 4th Century B.C.

Gautama Buddha

Gautama Buddha, the founder of Buddhism, lives during this period; he supposedly predicts his own death.

1377 A.D. to 1399 A.D.

A Famous Indian Saint is Born

Since people cannot place the exact date in the Gregorian calendar, and since they know Guru Ravidas’s birthday falls in the Hindu month of Magha, they take to celebrating his birth anniversary on Maghi Purnima.

January 31, 2018

Two Special Events in One Day

The date for Maghi Purnima celebrations coincides with a rare lunar phenomenon called the “Super Blue Blood Moon”.

February 8, 2020

One Date, Two Festivals

Magha Purnima and a festival celebrated by the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu, called Thaipusam or Thaipoosam, fall on the same date this year.

Maghi Purnima FAQs

When is Maghi Purnima?

In 2027, Maghi Purnima is observed on a Saturday, February 20. Devotees mark this day with holy dips in rivers, fasting, and worshipping the moon, seeking blessings and spiritual purification.

What is the significance of Maghi Purnima?

This day is considered highly auspicious for charity, known as ‘dana,’ and for performing ‘tapasya’ (penance). For Buddhists, it commemorates Gautama Buddha’s announcement of his impending Mahaparinirvana, adding another layer of spiritual reflection to the observance.

How is Maghi Purnima celebrated across India?

Many observe a full day fast, followed by prayers and offerings to the moon god, Chandra. Acts of charity, including donating food, clothes, and money to the needy, are also prominent, embodying the spirit of selfless service and compassion.

What rituals are performed on Maghi Purnima?

Charity, known as ‘dana,’ is a central practice, with people donating sesame seeds, jaggery, blankets, and food. The day also involves reciting sacred texts, chanting mantras, and engaging in meditation to enhance spiritual purity and merit.

Maghi Purnima Activities

Help a charitable cause

Any auspicious event is incomplete without a little charity for the less fortunate. Do a good deed too. Provide essential items to a charitable cause of your choice.

Adopt a few Buddhist tenets

Live peacefully. Stay calm. Stay centered. Practice mindfulness. And mostly, live with a heart full of love for fellow beings.

Delve into another culture

Learn more about India and its festivals. Maybe it is about Maghi Purnima, maybe it is about Diwali. Read about their festivals, watch movies and videos about how they celebrate, and adopt some celebrations into your own, if you want to.

5 Special Maghi Purnima Practices

A holy dip

On this day, people wake up before sunrise and take a dip in any body of holy water (aka the Ganga, the Yamuna, e.t.c.); alternatively, they can also take a little pot of holy water home and mix it with their bathwater.

Idol worship

People keep banana leaves, sandalwood paste, sesame seeds, areca nuts, and fruits in front of Vishnu's idol; those who can't do it at home visit temples where such special preparations are made.