Kolkata: Kojagari Lakshmi Puja, one of the most significant festivals observed by Bengali Hindu households after Durga Puja, will be celebrated on Sunday, October 25, in 2026.

While confusion persists over whether the festival falls on October 25 or 26, the full moon tithi begins on October 25 and continues until the following morning, making Sunday night the occasion for the traditional worship of Goddess Lakshmi.

- Vishuddha Siddhanta Panjika: Purnima tithi begins at 11.58 am on October 25 and ends at 9.42 am on October 26.

- Gupta Press Panjika: Purnima tithi begins at 10.57.30 am on October 25.

Although the almanacs differ slightly on the starting time, the full moon night falls on October 25.

Devotees are therefore expected to observe Kojagari Lakshmi Puja that evening, following their family traditions and their priests' guidance.

Why is Kojagari Lakshmi Puja celebrated?

Observed on the full moon night of the Ashwin month, Kojagari Lakshmi Puja holds a special place in Bengali households.

The festival follows the conclusion of Durga Puja, with families worshipping Goddess Lakshmi and seeking blessings for wealth, happiness, peace and prosperity.

The term ‘Kojagari’ originates from the Sanskrit phrase ‘Ko Jagrati’, meaning ‘Who is awake?’

According to popular belief, Goddess Lakshmi visits the earthly realm on this night and blesses those who remain awake and worship her.

This belief underpins the tradition of staying awake during Kojagari Purnima. Many households organise special prayers and offer traditional food items to the goddess, praying for financial stability and well-being.

How to perform Kojagari Lakshmi Puja

  • Clean the house and prepare the place of worship for Goddess Lakshmi.
  • Decorate the entrance with alpana designs made from rice paste, including footprints symbolising the arrival of Goddess Lakshmi.
  • Arrange traditional offerings such as flowers, fruits, sweets, coconuts, flattened rice and puffed rice.
  • Light lamps and perform the puja according to family customs and traditions.
  • Staying awake through the night is a traditional practice associated with Kojagari Purnima.
  • Consult family priests for guidance on the appropriate puja timings and rituals.
  • On October 25, Bengali households will observe the full moon night with prayers and traditional worship dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi.