Chandra (Moon) / Vishnu

Rise early, bathe, and take the sankalpa for Purnima Vrat. Begin the fast — either nirjala (without water), phalahari (fruits only), or ekabhukta (one meal). Wear clean white or light-coloured clothes. Visit a temple if possible.

Set up the puja area with a white cloth. Place an image of Lord Vishnu. Perform Shodashopachara puja (16-step worship) with sandalwood, flowers, akshat, and incense. Light the ghee lamp. Chant Vishnu Sahasranama or Om Namo Narayanaya japa.

Many families perform the Satyanarayan Puja and Katha on Purnima. Read or listen to the five chapters of the Satyanarayan Katha, which narrate stories of devotees whose wishes were fulfilled through truthful devotion to Lord Vishnu.

In the evening, step outside and sight the full moon. Fill a copper vessel with water, add milk, akshat, white flowers, and sandalwood. Facing the moon, offer arghya (pour the water mixture) while chanting Chandra mantras. This is the central ritual of Purnima Vrat.

After arghya, sit under the moonlight and meditate. Visualize the cool, white light of the full moon filling your body with peace and serenity. Pray for mental peace, emotional balance, and cooling of all anger and agitation. The Moon governs the mind (manas) in Vedic astrology.

After the Chandra Arghya and puja, break the fast with kheer (rice pudding) — the primary naivedya of Purnima. Share prasad with family. Distribute food, clothes, or donations to the needy. The vrat is considered complete after offering arghya to the moon.