Ahoi Ashtami 2023: Ahoi Mata vrat date, puja timings, rituals, colour to wear, and more details

New Delhi: Hindu women celebrate Ahoi Ashtami for their children’s long life and happiness, a significant observance in Hinduism. It is believed that this fast can help overcome problems related to children, making it especially important for mothers and childless couples. The purpose of this article is to explore the religious significance of Ahoi Ashtami and the rituals and traditions associated with it.

Why do we keep Ahoi Ashtami fast?

Mothers and aspiring mothers fast on Ahoi Ashtami to seek the blessings of Ahoi Mata, a Hindu deity associated with motherhood and childbirth. This fast is believed to alleviate children’s issues and bring prosperity to families when observed with devotion.

Rituals of Ahoi Ashtami

Ahoi Ashtami is observed according to a set of rituals and traditions. To help you celebrate this special day, here is a step-by-step guide:

1. Morning Purification: Taking a ceremonial bath in the morning is a good way to start the day. Purifying the body and soul in preparation for the fast symbolises this.

2. Fasting Resolution: After the bath, pledge to fast throughout the day as an offering to Ahoi Mata.

3. Nirjala Fast: Ahoi Ashtami fasting typically involves a Nirjala fast, which means abstaining from food and water all day long.

4. Creating Ahoi Mata’s Image: Draw an image or picture of Ahoi Mata in a clean and sacred space. The image serves as a focal point for the rest of the day’s worship.

5. Evening Worship: As evening approaches, women gather to worship Ahoi Mata according to traditional rituals.

6. Application of Kumkum: Apply kumkum (red vermillion) to Ahoi Mata’s image as a symbol of devotion and respect.

7. Offering of Flowers: To show your reverence for Ahoi Mata, present a beautiful arrangement of fresh flowers.

8. Lighting the Ghee Lamp: A ghee lamp is lit in front of the deity, symbolising the illumination of wisdom and spirituality. Offer puris and halwa as prasad.

9. Aarti Ceremony: Aarti is performed using the ghee lamp, while devotional songs and hymns are sung.

10. Breaking the Fast: After reading the sacred Ahoi Ashtami story, offer Arghya to the moon to signify the completion of your fast and to seek blessings for your children.

Ahoi Ashtami 2023 Date and Puja Timings

Ahoi Ashtami falls on November 5 in 2023. The Ashtami Tithi of Krishna Paksha in the Kartik month will begin at 12:59 am on November 05 and end at 03:18 am on November 6. Puja should be done between 05:42 pm and 07:00 pm.

Also Read: Life lessons from A to Z: A spiritual perspective

Which colour to wear on Ahoi Ashtami?

Ahoi Ashtami fasting is recommended for couples without children since it is believed to bestow blessings for the birth of a child. If you want to enhance the effectiveness of this observation, you should keep four pieces of Puri and Halwa on a plate, wear orange-coloured clothing, and worship Mata Ahoi.

What is the significance of Radha Kund on Ahoi Ashtami?

Ahoi Ashtami is especially important for childless couples who hope for a child. Many couples take a holy bath in Mathura’s Radha Kund, a sacred site associated with Lord Krishna and Radha, on this auspicious day. It is believed that this ritual strengthens their prayers for a child and brings blessings into their lives.

As a result, Ahoi Ashtami is a day of deep spiritual significance where mothers and aspiring mothers shine brightly with love and devotion. They seek Ahoi Mata’s blessings for the well-being and prosperity of their children through rituals and prayers, making it an important Hindu observance.