April 14, 2025 
Chaitra Purnima is the full moon day that falls in the Hindu month of Chaitra, marking the end of the spring season and holding significant religious importance. Celebrated on the full moon, it is a time when devotees often worship Lord Vishnu and the moon, seeking blessings for prosperity and spiritual well-being. In many regions, particularly in North India, Chaitra Purnima coincides with Hanuman Jayanti, the birth anniversary of Lord Hanuman, making the day even more auspicious with prayers and celebrations dedicated to him as well. It’s a time for fasting, taking holy dips in rivers, performing charitable acts, and engaging in devotional activities, fostering a sense of community and spiritual renewal.
This year, in 2025, Chaitra Purnima will be celebrated on Saturday, April 12th. The Purnima Tithi begins on Saturday, April 12th at 3:21 AM and ends on Sunday, April 13th at 5:51 AM. The Brahma Muhurat for auspicious activities like bathing and charity on Chaitra Purnima will be from 4:29 AM to 5:14 AM on April 12th.
For those observing the Satyanarayan Puja, a propitious time is from 7:35 AM to 9:10 AM on the same day. The moonrise on Chaitra Purnima in 2025 will be at 6:18 PM on April 12th, after which devotees can offer their prayers to the moon.
Many devotees begin the day by taking a holy bath in sacred rivers like the Ganges or at home, believing it purifies the soul and washes away sins. Observing a fast (Vrat) is also a significant practice, with some abstaining from all food and water while others consume only fruits and milk. A key ritual often performed is the Satyanarayan Puja, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, seeking his blessings.
Chaitra Purnima often coincides with Hanuman Jayanti in many regions, especially North India, celebrations frequently include visiting Hanuman temples, reciting the Hanuman Chalisa, and offering prayers to Lord Hanuman for strength and protection. Engaging in charitable activities and donations is considered highly meritorious on this day, with people giving food, clothes, and money to the needy. Listening to spiritual discourses and reciting sacred texts like the Ramayana or Bhagavad Gita are also ways to deepen one’s spiritual connection.
Significance and Religious Observances
The full moon in Chaitra is associated with spiritual purification and the worship of various deities. Lord Vishnu is a primary deity worshipped on this day, often through the auspicious Satyanarayan Puja, where devotees listen to the sacred katha and offer prayers and prasad. The brilliance and fullness of the moon on this night are seen as symbolic of abundance and spiritual enlightenment. Many devotees observe a fast throughout the day, breaking it after sighting the moon and offering prayers to it. Taking a holy dip in sacred rivers or water bodies is also a common practice, believed to cleanse the body and soul.
Community and Charitable Activities
Chaitra Purnima is also a time for fostering community spirit and engaging in acts of charity. Giving alms to the needy, donating food and clothes, and participating in community service are considered meritorious deeds on this auspicious day. These acts of generosity are believed to bring blessings and spiritual merit to the donors. The vibrant atmosphere of the festival, combined with the spiritual observances and charitable activities, makes Chaitra Purnima a significant occasion for reflection, devotion, and community bonding among Hindus.