Ahoi Ashtami 2025 Vrat Katha: Why Mothers Fast for Their Children
Ahoi Ashtami 2025 Vrat Significance
Every year, on the eighth day (Ashtami) of Krishna Paksha in Kartik month, mothers across India observe the sacred fast of Ahoi Ashtami (अहोई अष्टमी). In 2025, this vrat falls on October 13. Women fast without water (निर्जला व्रत) from sunrise until they see the stars (तारे), praying for their children’s long life (दीर्घायु), happiness (सुख), and prosperity (समृद्धि).
This vrat is deeply rooted in tradition and emotion. But without reading the Ahoi Ashtami Vrat Katha (व्रत कथा), the fast is considered incomplete. Let’s explore the powerful story behind this festival and why it continues to touch hearts across generations.
Ahoi Ashtami Vrat Katha: The Story of Sacrifice and Blessings
Long ago, in a town lived a wealthy merchant (साहूकार) with seven sons and their wives. One day, before Diwali, the daughters-in-law and the merchant’s daughter went to the fields to collect soil for house repairs. While digging, the daughter accidentally killed seven baby cubs of a hedgehog-like creature called “Sehi” (सेही).
The mother Sehi, named Syahu (स्याहु), was furious and cursed the girl: “I will bind your womb (कोख बांधूंगी), and you shall never bear children.” The daughter pleaded with her sisters-in-law to take the curse upon themselves. All refused, except the youngest daughter-in-law, who agreed to bear the curse.
The Curse and the Pandit’s Advice
Whenever the youngest daughter-in-law gave birth, her child died on the seventh day. After losing seven sons, she approached a wise Pandit (पंडित) for help. He advised her to serve a sacred cow named Surhi (सुरही गाय). The cow, pleased with her devotion, took her to Syahu.
On the way, they rested. Suddenly, the woman saw a snake (साँप) about to bite a baby eagle (गरुड़). She bravely killed the snake and saved the eagle.
🦅 Divine Intervention and Syahu’s Blessing
Moments later, the eagle returned and saw blood near its baby. Mistaking the woman for a threat, it attacked her. She explained how she saved its child. The eagle, moved by her courage, flew her and the cow to Syahu.
Syahu, touched by her service and sacrifice, blessed her with seven sons and seven daughters-in-law. Her home was soon filled with joy and laughter.
🪔 Rituals of Ahoi Ashtami 2025: Puja Vidhi and Star Sighting
- Date: Monday, October 13, 2025 Astroyogi | MSN
- Puja Muhurat: 5:53 PM to 7:08 PM The Times of India | MSN
- Star Sighting (तारे देखना): 6:17 PM
- Moonrise (चंद्र दर्शन): 11:20 PM
Women begin the day by placing a Kalash (कलश) with water in front of Ahoi Mata’s image. A Swastik (स्वस्तिक) made of sindoor is drawn on the pot. Offerings include rice, radish (मूली), water chestnuts (शिंगाड़ा), eight puris, and sweet puas.
After sunset, mothers read the vrat katha and offer arghya (अर्घ्य) to the stars. Only then do they break their fast.
Sources: Astroyogi | MSN The Times of India | MSN ABP News | MSN
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Regional Traditions and Cultural Importance
In North India, especially in Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, and Punjab, Ahoi Ashtami is celebrated with great devotion. In South India, including Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, the festival is gaining popularity among young mothers who want to preserve cultural roots.
Why the Vrat Katha Matters
Without the vrat katha, the fast is considered incomplete. The story teaches us about sacrifice, repentance, and divine grace. It reminds every mother that her love and prayers have the power to change destiny.
