Ahoi Ashtami, a vrat where mothers observe fasting for their children's well-being by worshipping Ahoi Mata, falls on the eighth day of Krishna Paksha in the Kartik month
Ahoi Ashtami 2025 vrat will be observed on October 13th. The fast begins at sunrise and continues until stars rise. The time of breaking fast is when the stars are visible in the sky
This fast is dedicated to children’s well-being; by observing Ahoi ashtami, mothers pray for their kids’ safety, health, prosperity, blessings of motherhood and a sense of nurturing young lives
The fast is symbolic of the love and dedication of a mother to her children and is believed to invoke Goddess Ahoi’s blessings for longevity, happiness, and protection of children from harm
Women draw Ahoi Mata’s image on a wall or floor, placing nine fruits representing children; they light lamps, offer sugarcane, sweets, listen to Ahoi katha and aarti to express gratitude, devotion, and hope for divine protection over children’s lives
The katha tells of a mother who lost her child due to her negligence. She prayed to Goddess Ahoi and regained him. Ahoi Katha teaches faith, patience, & devotion, the protective power of a mother’s love and the blessings of Goddess Ahoi
Like Karva Chauth, mothers eat Sargi before sunrise, the pre-fast meal, prepared by mother-in-law or elders, includes fruits, sweets, and dry fruits. Sargi provides strength and symbolises familial love, support, and coherence of vrat preparation