Sharad Ritu – The Autumn
Season of Festivals
Introduction
Sharad Ritu,
one of the six Indian seasons, marks the retreat of hot and humid weather. It
prevails during the months of Ashwin and Kartik in the Hindu calendar,
corresponding to mid-August to mid-October in the Gregorian calendar.
This season is celebrated as a time of clarity, balance, and festivity, with
some of the most important Hindu observances taking place.
In 2026, Sharad Ritu
begins on October 11 (Sunday).
Festivals of Sharad Ritu
Navratri
- A nine-day festival dedicated to Goddess
Durga.
- Devotees worship the nine forms of
Shakti, beginning on Pratipada and ending on Navami of
Ashwin month.
- Celebrated with fasting, prayers,
dance (Garba, Dandiya), and vibrant devotion across India.
Vijayadashami (Dussehra)
- Observed on the Dashami (10th
day) of Ashwin.
- Marks Lord Rama’s victory over
Ravana, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil.
- Culminates the Navratri celebrations
with grand processions and effigies of Ravana burnt in many regions.
Sharad Purnima
- Celebrated on the Purnima
(full moon day) of Ashwin.
- Known as Kumar Purnima or Kojaagari
Purnima, it signifies the end of the monsoon and the beginning of
harvest.
- Belief: Moon rays on this night carry
curative properties. Devotees prepare kheer and leave it under
moonlight as a sacred offering.
Significance of Sharad
Ritu
- Seasonal Transition:
Marks the end of summer and monsoon, ushering in cooler, pleasant weather.
- Astronomical Event:
The Autumnal Equinox occurs during this period (Sept 22–23), when
day and night are equal in duration.
- Spiritual Renewal:
Festivals emphasize devotion, victory of dharma, and gratitude for
harvest.
- Cultural Vibrance:
Communities unite in celebration, reinforcing traditions of worship,
dance, and food.