Discover the essence of Ahoi Ashtami, a day that honors the bond between mothers and their children. Ahoi Ashtami fasting day falls approximately eight days before Diwali Puja and four days after Karwa Chauth. Embrace the joy and the spirit of maternal love that Ahoi Ashtami 2023 brings.

Learn about the core of Ahoi Ashtami, its significance in North India, and why it’s a beacon of hope for mothers wishing for their children’s well-being.

The Essence of Ahoi Ashtami

Ahoi Ashtami 2023 is not just a day; it’s a testament to a mother’s love. As the moon takes its time to rise, mothers across North India fast from dawn, their hearts filled with prayers for their children’s longevity and happiness. This fast, traditionally for sons, has evolved to include daughters, reflecting modern values of equality.

Ahoi Ashtami puja is dedicated to Ahoi Mata or Goddess Hoi and is observed by mothers for the welfare of their children. She is worshipped on the walls of rural homes. Her image is painted on the walls during Ahoi Ashtami and other festivals.

Ahoi Mata is none other than Goddess Lakshmi. Hoi mata vrat is more popular in North India especially in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar.

The Ahoi Ashtami 2023 Puja Muhurat: Your Moment with the Stars

Ahoi Ashtami on Sunday, November 5, 2023
Ahoi Ashtami Puja Muhurat – 06:03 PM to 07:19 PM

Moonrise on Ahoi Ashtami – 12:38 AM, Nov 06

Ashtami Tithi Begins – 12:59 AM on Nov 05, 2023
Ashtami Tithi Ends – 03:18 AM on Nov 06, 2023

It is observed on the eighth day during the waning phase of moon or the Krishna Paksha Ashtami in Kartik month as per traditional Hindu calendar followed in North India.

Ahoi Mata Katha – Vrat Katha – Read on Ahoi Ashtami 2023

Once upon a time, in a quaint village, there lived a devoted mother of seven sons. During a routine visit to the forest to fetch soil for her dwelling’s renovation, she accidentally harmed a lion cub. This incident cast a shadow over her life, as one by one, her beloved sons met untimely fates.

Plunged into despair, the mother sought solace and guidance from a wise neighbor, who introduced her to the veneration of Ahoi Mata. With a heart full of hope, the mother observed the Ahoi Ashtami fast with unwavering faith. She painted the image of Ahoi Mata on her wall, fasted from dawn to dusk, and prayed fervently for the return of her children.

As the legend goes, the compassion of Ahoi Mata knew no bounds. Moved by the mother’s devotion, she blessed her, and by a divine miracle, all seven sons were returned to life. From that day forth, the mother’s tale became a beacon of hope, inspiring the tradition of Ahoi Ashtami Vrat.

This story isn’t just a narrative; it’s the essence of a mother’s unyielding faith. It’s recited every year, reminding those who observe the fast of the power of devotion and the miracles it can invoke. The Katha is a crucial part of the Ahoi Ashtami Puja, as it’s believed to amplify the blessings and bring about the welfare of children.

Fasting on Ahoi Ashtami 2023 : Embrace the Ritual with Care

Do’s:

1. Begin with Belief: Start your day with a positive intention and remember the purpose of your fast – the well-being of your children.
2. Morning Rituals: Rise before the sun, cleanse yourself, and perform the morning prayers to set a pious tone for the day.
3. Puja Preparation: Gather all necessary items for the Ahoi Mata puja well in advance, including the picture or murti of Ahoi Mata, a red thread, water jug, and food offerings.
4. Stay Hydrated: If you’re not observing a Nirjala fast (without water), keep yourself hydrated with sips of water throughout the day.
5. Healthy Snacking: If you’re not on a strict fast, consume light fruits or items like sabudana for sustenance.
6. Evening Puja: Perform the Ahoi Mata puja during the Pradosh Kaal, ideally an hour before sunset.
7. Break the Fast Right: Conclude your fast by sighting the stars or the moon, followed by the aarti and consuming Prasad.

Don’ts:

1. Avoid Overexertion: While fasting, refrain from engaging in physically strenuous activities that may lead to exhaustion.
2. Skip the Salt: If you’re consuming fruits or sabudana, avoid using salt as it may induce thirst and dehydration.
3. Don’t Rush the Rituals: Take your time with the puja. Haste can lead to mistakes or a lack of focus during the rituals.
4. Resist Negativity: Keep a positive mindset. Negative thoughts or emotions can detract from the spiritual experience.
5. Avoid Breaking Fast Early: Wait for the stars or the moon to appear before breaking your fast. Breaking the fast prematurely is considered inauspicious.

Fasting with Faith

Fasting on Ahoi Ashtami is a profound expression of maternal love and faith. By following these simple do’s and don’ts, you can honor the tradition with reverence and ensure a spiritually fulfilling experience.

A popular and strong belief is that, women who do not have children fast and perform all prayers and rituals of Ahoi Ashtami, it is called Krishnashtami after God Krishna. On this day, such women who wish for a child, take bath in Radha Kund, in Mathura,Uttar Pradesh, at Arunodaya. Goddess Kushmanda is worshiped, for this purpose.

As we wrap up our journey through the sacred rituals of Ahoi Ashtami, we hope you’ve found warmth and wisdom in the traditions that celebrate the indomitable spirit of maternal love. If you have any stories, insights, or queries about this cherished festival, don’t hesitate to reach out.

Share this content with your family and friends, and let’s spread the knowledge and joy of Ahoi Ashtami far and wide. Together, let’s keep the legacy of our traditions alive for generations to come.