During Kojagiri Purnima, when the moon reaches its midpoint, it is believed that its reflection can be seen in curdled milk, which is then consumed as prasad. Barahate Guruji explains that throughout the year, the moon’s reflection is influenced by 16 kalagunas on Sharad Purnima day. When the milk falls under these moonlit rays, it supposedly takes on the properties of nectar, providing devotees with the benefits of Amritprashana.
One belief behind consuming milk during this time is that it possesses the power to ward off various diseases. Srinivas Aundhkar, director of MGM APJ Abdul Kalam Astrospace Science Centre, explains that the distance between the moon and the earth decreases in October-November. During a full moon, the moon is much closer to the earth than usual. On this particular night, the moon appears larger and illuminates the earth with more light. As the monsoon season comes to an end, there is a reduction in the amount of dust particles in the atmosphere. When the moon is at its center, its rays fall in a straight line, increasing its brightness. This allows individuals to feel its coolness and encourages them to stay awake at night.
According to Dharma Shastra, it is customary to perform worship during an eclipse. Therefore, it is recommended that everyone worship Indra, Chandra, and Lakshmi as they do every year, and also offer curdled milk as part of the ritual. However, the curdled milk prasad should not be consumed immediately. It is advised to consume the prasad on the following day. Additionally, it is important to include Tulshipatra or darbha while making the offering to the moon, as it ensures that no mistakes are made as shared by Guruji.
