Thu Oct 24 18:05:49 UTC 2024: **Ahoi Ashtami Festival Summary:**

1. **Significance**: Ahoi Ashtami holds special importance in Hinduism, celebrated on the eighth day of the Krishna Paksha (waning phase of the moon) in the month of Kartik.

2. **Date**: In 2023, Ahoi Ashtami will be observed on October 24.

3. **Purpose of the Vrat**: Mothers observe this fast for the long life, happiness, and prosperity of their children. It takes place four days after Karwa Chauth.

4. **Practices**: On this day, women observe a full-day waterless fast (Nirjala) and perform evening rituals dedicated to Ahoi Mata, breaking their fast after sighting the stars and moon.

5. **Ritual Time**: According to the Vedic Panchang, the auspicious time for Ahoi Aashtami Puja is from 05:41 PM to 06:59 PM, lasting 1 hour and 15 minutes.

6. **Mythological Story**: The article narrates a story about a wealthy merchant and the struggles of his family due to a curse from a female porcupine (Siyahu). After enduring hardships and seeking help from a sage, blessings from a cow (Surahi) and a hawk help them ultimately receive the boon of seven sons and daughters-in-law.

**Legal Note**: The Supreme Court dismissed a contempt petition against the officials of Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and Uttarakhand, who were accused of illegally demolishing structures, violating earlier court orders.

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