Bhishma Ashtami 2026: Date, Rituals, Tarpan & Significance of Pitamaha’s Departure

 

Bhishma Ashtami (also called Bhishmashtami) is observed on the eighth day (Ashtami) of Shukla Paksha in the month of Magha, marking the departure of Bhishma Pitamaha, the revered grandsire of the Mahabharata. It falls during the Uttarayana period, the auspicious "daytime of the Devas," and is considered a spiritually potent time for ancestral offerings and vows.

In 2026, Bhishma Ashtami falls on Monday, January 26.

Significance

• Bhishma Pitamaha, also known as Ganga Putra Bhishma, chose to leave his body on this sacred day after lying on a bed of arrows during the Kurukshetra war.
• He was granted Iccha Mrityu (boon to choose the time of death) due to his unwavering celibacy and devotion.
• The day marks the transition into Uttarayana, a time considered highly auspicious in Hinduism.
• It is also believed to be effective in removing Putra Dosha and blessing childless couples with progeny.

Rituals & Observances

• Ekodishta Shraddha:
• A special ancestral ritual performed in honor of Bhishma.
• Traditionally done by those whose fathers are deceased, though some communities allow all to participate.
• Tarpanam:
• Offering water, sesame seeds, and prayers to Bhishma and ancestors, especially on riverbanks.
• Bhishma Ashtami Snan:
• Holy bath in sacred rivers like the Ganga.
• Devotees offer boiled rice and sesame seeds into the river.
• Fasting (Vrat):
• Observed by devotees, especially childless couples and newlyweds, seeking blessings for a virtuous son.
• Evening Arghyam:
• Devotees take a sankalp and offer water while chanting the Bhishma Ashtami Mantra.

Temple & Regional Observances

• ISKCON temples and Vishnu temples across India hold special pujas and satsangs.
• In West Bengal, elaborate rituals and community shraddha ceremonies are performed.
• Ganga ghats in North India witness large gatherings for tarpan and snan.