5. Full Moon Festivals

Festivals are ever becoming part of human civilization symbolizing the happiness and prosperity. The Jains celebrate Anant Chaturdashi on the propitious day falls on bright half, worshipping the Lord Vishnu for recouping the lost wealth and fortunes. Another festival called Sharad Purnima has been observed by people of Nagpur during Shuklapaksha along with music and amusements by the friends and relatives. They believe the bluish moon light contain healing effect that showers peace and harmony. Similar festivals of traditional Hindu communities are dedicated to Goddess Saraswathi, marking the end of monsoon. Sharad Purnima also becomes the part of Durga festivals in the name of goddess Laxmi in northern parts of India. When the moon is owned in exalted sign Taurus, the Tibetan Buddhists celebrates Wesak festival known as Saja Dawa in memory of enlightenment of Buddha Shakyamuni during which they release the captured animals in the month of June. The Madhu Purnima known as Honey Full Moon is celebrated by the Buddhists to keep peace and tranquility among the quarrelling disciples. It is treated as the day of concord and coordination by submitting fruits, honey, gifts and valuables to monasteries. In commemoration of Sri Buddha’s miracle(s) the Mahayana communities celebrate Lantern Festival during the full moon as culmination of Manlam festival with the dedication. Mid-Autumn Fiesta belongs to Chinese festival observed as harvest festival when the moon attains its full shape. The influence of moon with human culture becomes relevant in accordance with astrological and non-astrological outlook irrespective of ancient or modern civilization.^[1]