Ahoi Ashtami: A Sacred Fast for the Well-being of Children

By Lakshmi Devi

In the depths of my heart, there lies a tale of devotion, sacrifice, and the unbreakable bond between a mother and her child. This tale, shared through generations, has guided our hearts and traditions, shaping the sacred observance of Ahoi Ashtami.
The Genesis of Ahoi Ashtami
It is believed that in ancient times, there lived a woman named Gudiya who faced the heart-wrenching loss of her beloved son. Desperate to regain her child, she embarked on a rigorous fast, seeking divine intervention. Her unwavering faith and devotion moved the gods, who granted her a vision of Lord Indra, the king of heaven.
Lord Indra revealed to Gudiya that her son's premature demise was a result of an untimely death curse by an angry saint. However, the curse could be reversed through a sacred fast on the eighth day of the dark fortnight in the month of Kartik. With newfound hope, Gudiya meticulously observed the fast and performed a special puja, known as Ahoi Ashtami.
Miraculously, her son was brought back to life, and Gudiya's joy knew no bounds. Since that fateful day, Ahoi Ashtami has been celebrated as an auspicious occasion, where mothers pray for the well-being and longevity of their children.
The Observance of Ahoi Ashtami
On this sacred day, mothers observe a strict fast, refraining from food and water from sunrise to sunset. They adorn their homes with intricate Rangoli designs, invoking the blessings of the divine. As the sun begins its descent, they gather for the Ahoi Ashtami puja, a heartfelt ritual filled with devotion.
During the puja, mothers offer prayers to Ahoi Mata, the goddess who protects children from harm. They light earthen lamps, symbolizing the eternal flame of hope and faith. They also offer a special dish called "puri" and "halwa," which is believed to bring good fortune and health to their children.
The highlight of the puja is the ritual of tying a sacred thread around a small wooden or earthen pot, known as "Ahoi." This pot represents the children and symbolizes their protection and well-being. Mothers make offerings to the Ahoi, seeking divine blessings for their little ones.
The Legend of Ahoi Mata
According to folklore, Ahoi Mata is the daughter of Lord Indra and the divine mother of children. She is believed to have the power to grant boons and protect children from harm. It is said that Ahoi Mata descends to earth on this day to bless the children and fulfill the wishes of their mothers.
The Significance of Ahoi Ashtami
Ahoi Ashtami is a testament to the unbreakable bond between a mother and her child. It is a day to celebrate motherhood and the immeasurable love that mothers have for their children. Through this sacred fast and devotion, mothers invoke divine protection and blessings for the health, happiness, and longevity of their precious ones.
As we observe Ahoi Ashtami, let us cherish the love of our mothers and the sacred traditions that connect us. May the blessings of Ahoi Mata be upon our children, guiding them throughout their lives.