Kojagara

Kojagara

September-October; full moon day of Hindu month of Asvina

The word "Kojagara" is a combination of two terms, Kah and jagara, which means "who is awake?" This is what the goddess Lakshmi says when she descends to the earth on the night of the full moon in the month of Asvina. She blesses all those who are awake with wealth and prosperity, so the festivities go on all night. Kojagara is a harvest festival and is celebrated throughout India.
There is a folk tale about a king who fell into dire financial straits. When his queen observed the fast and night vigil in honor of Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, their fortunes were reversed and prosperity returned to them.

CONTACTS:
India Tourist Office
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New York, NY 10020
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www.indiatouristoffice.org

SOURCES:
RelHolCal-2004, p. 176