Mon Oct 13 02:10:00 UTC 2025: ## Ahoi Ashtami Observed Today: Mothers Pray for Children’s Well-being

**New Delhi, October 13, 2025** – Hindu women across the nation are observing Ahoi Ashtami today, a significant fast dedicated to Ahoi Mata, the Goddess revered for protecting children. This auspicious occasion, observed on the Krishna Paksha Ashtami of the Kartik month, sees mothers fasting from sunrise to sunset, praying for the long life, prosperity, and well-being of their offspring.

Ahoi Ashtami is considered particularly important for childless couples seeking blessings for progeny. Devotees believe that the spiritual power of the Ahoi Ashtami fast can ward off negativity and ensure the good fortune of their children. Special rituals performed on this day are believed to bestow longevity and a healthy life upon them.

According to the Hindu calendar, the Ashtami Tithi began on October 13th at 12:24 PM and will end on October 14th at 11:09 AM, making today the designated day for the Ahoi Ashtami fast. The auspicious time for performing the Ahoi Ashtami Puja is between 5:53 PM and 7:08 PM, offering devotees a little over an hour for their prayers.

Mothers break their fast after offering Arghya (sacred water offering) to the stars. The time for the appearance of stars is predicted to be 7:32 PM, according to the Drik Panchang.

**Puja Vidhi (Worship Ritual):**

Devotees begin the day with a bath and a vow to observe the fast. An image of Ahoi Mata is drawn on a wall, often using geru (red ochre) or red paint. A water-filled Kalash (pot) is placed near the deity. The Ahoi Mata is then venerated with incense, flowers, fruits, and offerings of kheer, halwa, and puri. While holding seven grains of wheat and some Dakshina (monetary offering), devotees listen to the Ahoi Ashtami Katha (story). After the Katha, the grains of wheat and Dakshina are given to the mother-in-law or an elderly woman for her blessings.

In the evening, during Pradosh Kaal (twilight), Ahoi Mata is worshiped once more before Arghya is offered to the stars. To perform the Arghya, water is taken in a Kalash mixed with a small amount of Ganga Jal (holy water from the Ganges). The Kalash is held above the head with both hands while offering the water towards the sky. Devotees then pray for the happiness, prosperity, progress, and long life of their children.

Ahoi Ashtami is a testament to the enduring bond between mothers and their children, and a symbol of unwavering faith and devotion.

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