Ahoi Ashtami 2023: Date and Importance
Ahoi Ashtami is an important Hindu festival celebrated by mothers for the well-being and longevity of their children. It falls on the eighth day of the waning phase of the moon in the Hindu month of Kartik. In 2023, Ahoi Ashtami will be celebrated on 19th November.
Shubh Muhurat for Ahoi Ashtami 2023
The auspicious time for observing the Ahoi Ashtami fast and performing the puja is during the Ashtami Tithi (eighth day) of the Krishna Paksha (waning phase of the moon). The muhurat for Ahoi Ashtami in 2023 is from 6:29 PM to 8:12 PM.
Puja Rituals for Ahoi Ashtami
On Ahoi Ashtami, mothers observe a day-long fast for the well-being of their children. They wake up early in the morning and take a bath before sunrise. The fast begins after the bath and continues until the sighting of stars in the evening. During the day, mothers abstain from consuming food and water.
In the evening, a small puja is performed to worship the Ahoi Mata, who is considered to be the protector of children. The puja involves creating a sacred space with a picture or idol of Ahoi Mata. The mother offers prayers, lights a lamp, and performs aarti. Some families also draw the image of Ahoi Mata on the wall using natural colors.
Importance of Ahoi Ashtami
Ahoi Ashtami is a festival that celebrates the bond between a mother and her children. It is believed that by observing the Ahoi Ashtami fast and performing the puja, mothers can protect their children from any harm or evil influences. It is also believed that this fast helps in ensuring the long and healthy life of the children.
On this day, mothers pray for the well-being, prosperity, and success of their children. They seek the blessings of Ahoi Mata for the happiness and growth of their offspring. Ahoi Ashtami is also a time for mothers to express their love and devotion towards their children.
Ahoi Ashtami Story
Once, in a small village, a couple had seven sons. While collecting soil in the forest for Diwali decorations, the mother accidentally caused harm to a hedgehog’s offspring. Upset, the hedgehog cursed the mother, leading to the loss of her seven sons.
Some elderly women visited the grieving mother and advised her to worship Ahoi Mata on every Ashtami. They suggested drawing the goddess’s picture, and caring for and feeding a cow daily.
The mother diligently followed these practices. Pleased with her devotion, a cow granted her a wish. Due to her observance of the Ahoi Ashtami fast, she regained her seven sons. Since then, women have observed this fast, honoring Ahoi Mata, who safeguards children. They fast, tell the Vrat Katha, offer food, and seek the goddess’s blessings on Ahoi Ashtami.
In Conclusion
Ahoi Ashtami is a significant festival for mothers, who observe a day-long fast and perform the puja for the well-being and longevity of their children. It is a time to express love and devotion towards one’s offspring and seek the blessings of Ahoi Mata. The festival is important in Hindu culture and is celebrated with enthusiasm and devotion.