Ahoi Ashtami is a significant Hindu festival that holds a special place in the hearts of mothers across India. This sacred observance, falling on the eighth day of the Krishna Paksha during the month of Kartik (or Ashwin in some regions) in the Hindu calendar, is dedicated to the well-being and prosperity of children. In 2023, Ahoi Ashtami is set to be celebrated on November 5, a day filled with devotion, rituals, and love.

Ahoi Ashtami is observed precisely eight days before the grand festival of Diwali, and it follows the Karwa Chauth celebrations by four days. On this auspicious day, mothers fervently pray for the health, longevity, and success of their offspring, seeking divine blessings to safeguard their children from harm and obstacles.

Ahoi Ashtami 2023 falls on Sunday, November 5. The significant tithi of Ashtami starts at 1:00 AM on November 5 and concludes at 3:18 AM on November 6. The most auspicious time for performing Ahoi Ashtami Puja is from 05:42 PM to 07:00 PM on the same day.

The Rituals and Significance:

Preparation: The day begins with mothers waking up early and observing a fast from sunrise to moonrise. This fast is considered as important as that of Karwa Chauth and is meticulously followed.

Ahoi Ashtami Katha: On this day, mothers, grandmothers, and other elder women in the family narrate the Ahoi Ashtami Vrat Katha (story) to younger generations. The story revolves around a compassionate mother who accidentally kills a young cub but later goes to great lengths to revive it. This story serves as an inspiration for mothers to do whatever it takes to protect and nourish their children.

Drawing the Ahoi Mata Vrat Katha: A special painting of Ahoi Mata, a revered manifestation of Maa Parvati, is made on the wall. Ahoi Mata is depicted as having multiple arms, holding a pitcher full of water and a child in her lap. This painting becomes the focal point of the day's prayers and rituals.

Puja Items: Women prepare a special plate filled with essential items for the puja. This plate includes a picture of Ahoi Mata, grains, incense sticks, a lit lamp, fruits, and various sweets, symbolizing fertility and abundance.

Prayers and Fasting: During the auspicious hours in the evening, women gather around the Ahoi Mata painting and recite prayers with utmost devotion. They offer their heartfelt prayers, seeking the blessings and protection of Ahoi Mata for their children's well-being.

Breaking the Fast: The fast is concluded after the evening prayers, and the food is shared with the family members. It is customary for mothers to break their fast only after sighting the stars in the evening sky.

Ahoi Ashtami is not just a religious observance but a beautiful expression of a mother's love and dedication towards her children. It serves as a reminder of the invaluable role mothers play in nurturing and safeguarding their offspring. This festival also promotes family togetherness and the passing down of traditions from one generation to the next.

As Ahoi Ashtami 2023 approaches, let us remember the profound significance of this day and the boundless love and care that mothers provide for their children. It is a celebration of motherhood, devotion, and the eternal bond between parents and their little ones.

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