Ahoi Ashtami is a Hindu festival dedicated to Ahoi Mata and for all the mothers and their loving relationship with their children. It is celebrated around 8 days before Diwali on Krishna Paksha Ashtami. According to the Purnimanta calendar, it falls in the month of Kartik, and in the month of Ashwin according to the Amanta calendar used in Gujarat, Maharashtra, and other southern states. The only difference is the month's name, and the fasting for Ahoi Ashtami takes place on the same day.
About Ahoi Ashtami
Ahoi Ashtami is a Hindu festival dedicated to Mata Ahoi, or Goddess Ahoi, on Ahoi Ashtami. On this day, mothers observe a fast for the well-being of their children. Mothers pray to her for their children's health and longevity. Because Ahoi Ashtami fasting takes place on Ashtami Tithi, the eighth day of the lunar month, this day is known as well as Ahoi Aathe. The day also marks the beginning of Diwali.
When Is Ahoi Ashtami In 2025? Date, Time, Tithi & Muhurat
Ahoi Ashtami on Monday, October 13, 2025
Ahoi Ashtami Puja Muhurat - 17:17 to 18:31
Duration - 01 Hour 14 Mins
Govardhana Radha Kunda Snan on Monday, October 13, 2025
Sanjh (evening) time for sighting Stars - 17:40
Krishna Dashami Moonrise on Ahoi Ashtami - 22:52
Ashtami Tithi Begins - 12:24 on Oct 13, 2025
Ashtami Tithi Ends - 11:09 on Oct 14, 2025
The Legend Behind Ahoi Ashtami: A Tale of Devotion and Blessings
According to a legend, King Chandrabhan’s children died at a very young age. The King and his wife performed severe penance. Hence, they left everything behind and went to a forest. They noticed a pond near Badrika Ashram. After seven days, they received a prophecy that they were suffering because of the sins committed in their past lives. It was suggested that they should observe Ahoi Ashtami fast for the long life of their children. Hence, King Chandrabhan and his wife observed Ahoi Ashtami fast. Pleased by their devotion, Goddess Ahoi blessed them with children. She advised and consoled her to pray to Ahoi Ashtami Bhagwati by drawing the face of a cub. They offered prayers and observed the Ahoi Vrat. By the grace of Goddess Ahoi, her sons were restored back to life. It is also known as Ahoi Aathe since fasting for Ahoi Ashtami is performed during Ashtami Tithi which is the 8th day of the lunar month.
Ahoi Ashtami Puja Vidhi & Rituals: Step-by-Step Guide
On the day of Ahoi Ashtami, women wake up early in the morning, observe a fast and pray for the welfare and longevity of their children. They clean the puja room a day prior to Ahoi Ashtami puja. Afterwards, they observe Nirjala vrat (fast without water).
Couples who wish to conceive must take a dip in the Radha Kund in Mathura during sunrise, pray to the Kushmanda avatar of Maa Durga and observe a day-long fast.
They perform Ashtakoshta, an eight-edged image of Ahoi Mata and a lion cub called Geru is painted on the wall. Before the image, a kalash full of water and karwa is placed. Devotees chant vrat katha and perform aarti to seek blessings.
A decorated bowl is kept to the left of the image of Ahoi Mata, and a red thread is tied around it. Puja is performed and kumkum, turmeric and Akshata are sprinkled on the idol. Halwa, puri, sugarcane, singhara, sorghum, chana, sweets and fruits are offered to Goddess Ahoi and served as bhog to everyone.
The best time for performing Puja is just after sunset during Sandhya. During Puja, Ahoi Mata is venerated with every rite. Typically, women perform the Ahoi Ashtami Puja with their female family members. Throughout Puja, women tell the story of Ahoi Mata. Ahoi Mata vrat katha is recited. A ghee lamp is lit and sankalp is taken for the well-being of their children. Gandham, Pushpam, deepam, dhoop and Naivedyam are offered to Ahoi Mata.
Fast is broken during twilight after sighting stars in the sky. Women either give Argha to the Stars or the Moon depending on the family tradition before breaking the fast. They break their fast by drinking water offered by their children as soon as the stars are seen in the sky.
Ahoi Ashtami Vrat Vidhi: The Fasting Rituals
The Ahoi Ashtami fast ritual involves mothers fasting from sunrise to moonrise for the well-being of their children.
They begin the day with a prayer to Goddess Ahoi, often drawing her image or placing a picture in the prayer area.
Throughout the day, they refrain from eating or drinking, offering water, milk, and special sweets to the goddess during the evening puja.
The fast is typically broken after sighting the stars or the moon, followed by sharing the prasad with family members.
Ahoi Ashtami Vrat Katha: Ahoi Ashtami Story
Once upon a time, a wealthy couple were graced with seven strong and charming kids. Their community was nestled at the edge of a huge forest. A storm was brewing on the horizon, ready to ruin their happy home life, but alas, it was fated to pass over them.
While carrying about her regular duties, the housewife once went out to collect soil for some cultivation. Where the soil was lush and fertile, she strolled to the village's edges. As soon as she had her axe ready, she started digging. However, misfortune struck her as she continued to dig. She swung the axe fatally near a lion cub that was hiding in the soil, and the little animal was killed instantly.
As the lioness found her slain cub, her wailing howl resounded across the forests. The lioness, overwhelmed with anguish and fury, swore at the woman, threatening that the pair would suffer the gradual death of their beloved children. After a year of celebration, the couple's house fell into utter silence as their seven boys departed, bringing with them nothing but sorrow and loss.
As time went on, the couple's sorrow became intolerable. As they grieved, a wise saint happened to be passing by their house one day. After seeing the pain on their faces, he paused to enquire as to what had caused them such sadness. The saint was saddened by the couple's tragedy and told them to seek redemption through forgiveness as they grieved over the occurrences.
The couple set off for the woods in a last-ditch effort to break the curse that had taken their boys. They walked along for days, consumed by an intense desire for their suffering to ultimately lessen. Deep in the jungle, they embarked on a rigorous penance, fervently praying for mercy. However, their requests seemed to resonate across the vast deserts without providing any sort of relief.
In their unshakeable determination, the pair chose to fast for six days in the hopes that their commitment would ultimately be magnified. As they lay helpless and exhausted on the seventh day, a heavenly voice echoed over the area. Ashtami, the eighth day of the lunar month, was instructed by the voice to be observed as a fast in praise of Goddess Ahoi.
The pair went back to their house, their spirits lifted. They were ready to follow the divine command and fast wholeheartedly. Alterations to the surrounding environment started happening as they prayed to Goddess Ahoi for forgiveness and blessings. Gradually, the burden of grief that had previously enveloped their dwelling loosened.
And just like that, a miracle happened. The happy couple, like before, were blessed with seven kids. The house that had been so quiet and full of sadness was now humming with melodies of pleasure and laughs. With the curse broken, the couple could finally enjoy a life of pure bliss.
North Indian mothers have religiously followed the Ahoi Ashtami fast ever since. In honour of the loving parents, they pray to Goddess Ahoi for the protection of their children. A tale of love, grief, trust, and divine favor has thus persisted, handed down through the ages.
Ahoi Ashtami Fast Process: Do’s and Don’ts While Observing Ahoi Ashtami Fast
The Do’s for Ahoi Ashtami while observing fast are:
North India is the main region for Ahoi Ashtami celebrations, filled with enthusiasm and cultural diversity.
Mothers observe a strict fast from dawn until moonrise for their children's well-being.
They pray for their children's health, longevity, and prosperity.
Depending on traditions, the fast is broken after seeing the moon or constellations.
A statue or portrait of Goddess Ahoi is kept in the worship area, and homes are decorated with elaborate rangoli patterns.
Mothers often draw Goddess Ahoi on a clay pot or wall, surrounding the sketch with a holy thread.
Offerings typically include milk, water, and seasonal sweets, placed in an Ahoi Thali.
Women gather in the evenings for rituals and to share stories of Ahoi Ashtami legends.
Ahoi Ashtami emphasizes community, tradition, and the unconditional love of mothers for their children, making it highly revered in many Indian homes.
The Don’ts for Ahoi Ashtami Fasting are:
Avoid eating or drinking anything until moonrise or the sighting of the constellation to maintain the sanctity of the fast.
Refrain from consuming non-vegetarian food or alcohol during the day to keep the purity of the ritual.
Do not engage in cutting or sewing activities, as they are considered inauspicious on this day and may negatively impact the wellbeing of children.
Avoid negative thoughts, arguments, or ill feelings, as a positive atmosphere is important for the success of the puja.
Ensure you do not skip the prayers and rituals dedicated to Goddess Ahoi, as missing them is considered disrespectful.
Refrain from breaking the fast before the proper rituals are completed, including seeing the moon or constellation, as it is believed to disrespect the goddess and diminish the benefits of fasting.
These guidelines help ensure that the observance of Ahoi Ashtami is in line with traditional values and spiritual significance.
Products associated with Ahoi Ashtami
Garbh Gauri Rudraksh
On Ahoi Ashtami, the Garbh Gauri Rudraksha from Rudra Centre is believed to bless mothers with the well-being and protection of their children, making it a perfect spiritual gift for the occasion.
Santan Gopal Puja
On Ahoi Ashtami, the Santan Gopal Puja service from Rudra Centre is believed to invoke divine blessings for the health and prosperity of children, making it an ideal spiritual practice for mothers seeking protection and well-being for their offspring.
Santan Gopal Yantra
An important part of your spiritual rituals on Ahoi Ashtami will be the Santan Gopal Yantra from Rudra Centre, which is revered for its power to bring forth divine protection and guarantee the well-being of children.
Santan Gopal Red Jade Gemstone Yantra
Buy Santan Gopal Red Jade Yantra
On Ahoi Ashtami, the Santan Gopal Red Jade Gemstone Yantra from Rudra Centre is highly esteemed for its exceptional blend of the divine blessings of the Santan Gopal Yantra and the protective and nurturing energy of the red jade stone. As a result, it is the perfect option for enhancing the health and success of children.
Durga Goddess Idols
Celebrate Ahoi Ashtami with one of Rudra Centre's magnificently created Durga Goddess Idols. Each of these idols represent a distinct aspect of Goddess Durga's strong and protective energy, so you may use them to bring her blessings of strength and protection into your house.
Final Reflection
Ahoi Ashtami is a beautiful tradition that highlights the deep love and devotion mothers have for their children. Not only does this day emphasize the significance of religion and community via traditional customs and prayers, but it also enhances the link between mother and child. A treasured element of cultural legacy, Ahoi Ashtami celebrates the blessings and protection of Goddess Ahoi for the well-being of children and has been for centuries.
Comments 0
Leave your thought here