BhaktiLoopAhoi Ashtami
Observed by mothers for the well-being, prosperity, and long life of their children. It is believed that observing this fast brings good fortune and protects children from all adversities.
Key Rituals & Practices
Mothers observe a day-long fast, often a 'Nirjala Vrat' (without water) from dawn till moonrise/star-sight.
Worship of Goddess Ahoi, often depicted with eight children, is performed in the evening.
Images or paintings of Ahoi Mata are drawn on walls or printed, sometimes accompanied by images of a pot of water, a Karva (pot for Karwa Chauth), or a hedgehog with its young.
Offerings typically include 'Pua' (sweet pancakes), 'Puri' (fried bread), 'Halwa', fruits, and water.
The 'Ahoi Ashtami Vrat Katha' (story) is narrated or listened to during the puja.
In the evening, mothers offer water (Arghya) to the stars or the moon before breaking their fast.
Sweets and food are distributed after the fast is broken.
Associated Deities
Hindu Calendar Details
Hindu Month
Kartik
Paksha
Krishna Paksha (dark fortnight)
Tithi
Ashtami (eighth day)
Regional Relevance & Variations
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Historical & Mythological Context
According to a popular legend, a woman living in a village was digging soil near a forest for her house repair. While doing so, she accidentally killed lion cubs living in a den. This act angered the mother lioness, and soon after, all seven of the woman's children died. Grief-stricken, the woman narrated her tale to an old woman, who advised her to worship Ahoi Bhagwati and draw an image of the lioness and her cubs on the wall and observe a fast. The woman sincerely observed the fast, and with the blessings of Ahoi Mata, she was blessed with her children back. Another legend connects it to the mothers of the seven sons of Sage Vashishta, who were killed by a demon, and were later restored by their mother's devotion.
Alternative Names
Gregorian Date
Varies (typically late October or early November)