Ahoi Ashtami is a significant Hindu festival celebrated to seek the blessings of Goddess Ahoi or Ahoi Mata for the well-being and longevity of children. It is observed by mothers with great devotion and love. Ahoi Ashtami falls on the eighth day of the waning phase of the moon in the month of Kartik (October/November) as per the Hindu calendar. This day holds immense significance as mothers perform special rituals, fasting, and prayers to invoke the blessings of the goddess. Let us explore the details of Ahoi Ashtami in 2023.
What blessings will Ahoi Ashtami bring you this year? Ask our expert astrologer now!
Ahoi Ashtami 2023: Date and Timing:
Date: Ahoi Ashtami in 2023 will be observed on Sunday, 5th November.
Asthami tithi timings- Begin from November 05, 1:00 am to November 06, 3:18 am
Ahoi Ashtami Puja Muhurat- Begins from November 05, 5:42 pm to November 05, 7:00 pm.
Vrat Katha:
The vrat katha associated with Ahoi Ashtami is a heartfelt tale of a mother’s love. It is said that there was once a woman who had seven sons. One day, she began digging the soil to make repairs in her home when accidentally, she ended up killing a young cub in the process. Devastated by her actions, she sought forgiveness from the cub’s mother and promised to observe a fast on Ashtami every year.
Her prayers and devotion touched the divine powers, and she was blessed with the revival of her seven sons. From that day onwards, it became a tradition for mothers to observe Ashtami fast and pray for the well-being of their children.
Rituals and Celebrations:
Ahoi Ashtami is celebrated with a set of rituals and customs that hold immense significance for mothers observing the festival. Let’s delve into the various rituals and celebrations associated with Ashtami:
Fasting:
Mothers observe a strict fast on Ashtami, starting from dawn and continuing until the sighting of stars in the evening. The fast is observed without consuming food or water during this period, symbolizing devotion, austerity, and sacrifice. Mothers undertake this fast with the belief that it will bring longevity, prosperity, and good health to their children.
Preparation:
On the day of Ahoi Ashtami, mothers wake up early in the morning and perform their daily ablutions. They wear clean clothes and proceed to create a small square-shaped image of Goddess Ahoi on a wall or a clean surface. The image is typically made using a mixture of clay and water. The goddess is depicted with multiple arms, holding various symbols of power and protection.
Celebrate Ahoi Ashtami with StarsTell and get a Balarishta Puja done for your kids!
Puja and Offering:
Once the image of Goddess Ahoi is prepared, a puja (worship) is performed. Mothers offer prayers, light a diya (oil lamp), and burn incense sticks to create a sacred atmosphere. They offer seasonal fruits, sweets, and other delicacies as bhog (offering) to the goddess. The bhog is usually placed in front of the image while prayers are recited.
Ahoi Ashtami Vrat Katha:
During the puja, mothers recite the Ahoi Ashtami Vrat Katha. The Vrat Katha narrates the story of the woman who accidentally killed a young lion cub and sought forgiveness from Goddess Ahoi Mata. It emphasizes the power of devotion, forgiveness, and the divine protection of children. The recitation of the Vrat Katha is believed to invoke the blessings and benevolence of the goddess.
Breaking the Fast:
The fast is traditionally broken in the evening after sighting the stars. Before partaking in the first meal of the day, mothers offer water and food to the stars, expressing gratitude and seeking blessings. The meal includes a variety of dishes and sweets, signifying abundance, prosperity, and the joy of breaking the fast.
Exchange of Blessings:
Ahoi Ashtami is also a time for mothers to seek blessings from their parents or elders. They touch the feet of their parents or elders as a sign of respect and seek their blessings for the well-being and prosperity of their children. This exchange of blessings strengthens family bonds and fosters a sense of gratitude and love.
Want to know what rituals you should be doing on Ahoi Ashtami to multiply your child’s happiness? Ask our expert astrologer now!
Significance of Ahoi Ashtami:
Ahoi Ashtami holds deep cultural and religious significance for the Hindu community, especially mothers. Here are some key aspects of the festival’s significance:
Blessings for Children:
Ahoi Ashtami is observed by mothers to seek the blessings and protection of Goddess Ahoi Mata for the well-being and longevity of their children. The goddess is believed to safeguard the health, happiness, and prosperity of children, ensuring their growth and development.
Motherhood and Devotion:
The festival of Ahoi Ashtami celebrates the profound bond between a mother and her child. Mothers observe a rigorous fast, perform elaborate rituals, and recite the Vrat Katha to express their deep love, devotion, and commitment to the welfare of their children.
A Sense of Community:
Ahoi Ashtami brings families and communities together as they join in the celebration. Mothers share their experiences, exchange blessings, and support one another. The festival fosters a sense of unity, camaraderie, and mutual respect among the members of the community.
Cultural Heritage:
Ahoi Ashtami is deeply rooted in the cultural heritage of India. The festival reflects the traditions, customs, and values passed down through generations. It serves as a reminder of the rich cultural tapestry of the country and reinforces the importance of preserving and celebrating such festivals.
Ahoi Ashtami, observed on 5th November 2023, is a special festival dedicated to seeking the blessings of Goddess Ahoi Mata for the well-being and prosperity of children. Mothers perform fasting, puja, and recite the Vrat Katha to express their devotion and love. The festival highlights the significance of motherhood, the power of prayers, and the sense of community. Ashtami reinforces the timeless bond between a mother and her child and serves as a reminder of cultural heritage and values.
Check out our More blog
For more, find us on Instagram.