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**Headline: Marwari Women in Jadugora Prepare for Ahoi Ashtami Fast for Children’s Well-being**
**Jadugora, [Date – Insert Date Here]** – Marwari women in Jadugora are preparing to observe Ahoi Ashtami on Monday, a day-long fast undertaken for the long life, good health, and prosperity of their children. The fast, observed without food or water, culminates in the evening with the sighting of stars.
Similar to the Jitiya festival observed by the Bihari community, Ahoi Ashtami is a significant tradition for Marwari women, symbolizing their devotion to their children’s welfare. Women fast from sunrise to the appearance of stars in the evening.
“Ahoi Ashtami is a very important fast for Marwari women,” said Jyoti Agarwal of the Marwari Mahila Manch, Jadugora. “On this day, we worship Ahoi Mata and pray for the happiness and prosperity of our children, breaking our fast in the evening upon seeing the stars.”
Pooja Agarwal emphasized the devotion with which the fast is observed. Women pray for Ahoi Mata’s continued blessings on their children, hoping they will bring honor to their community and country.
Meera Agarwal highlighted the timing of the festival, noting its significance just before Diwali. “We worship Ahoi Mata with great devotion, hoping our children will live long, happy, and prosperous lives. We fast from morning until evening, breaking our fast with the sight of stars and receiving blessings from elders.”
Sunita Gupta explained that the fast includes listening to the Ahoi Mata Katha (story) and making offerings in the evening after seeing the stars.
Chinki Agarwal added, “This fast is of great importance to Marwari women for the bright future, peace, good health, and long life of their children. The fast is observed with great devotion, without water, and the fast is broken after seeing the stars at night. Then offerings are made, and blessings are received from the elders.”
Beyond its religious significance, Ahoi Ashtami also marks the beginning of Diwali preparations for the Marwari community. It is considered an auspicious day for businesses to purchase new account books, pens, and other Diwali Pooja supplies.
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