Ahoi Ashtami 2025: A Mother's Vrat for Her Children’s Well-being

 

Ahoi Ashtami is a deeply revered Hindu festival observed by mothers for the long life, happiness, and prosperity of their children. Celebrated on the Ashtami Tithi of Krishna Paksha in the month of Kartik (October 13, 2025 – Monday), it falls eight days before Diwali and four days after Karwa Chauth. In Amanta regions like Maharashtra and Gujarat, it is observed during Ashwin month.

Significance of Ahoi Ashtami

This vrat is dedicated to Goddess Ahoi Mata, symbolizing maternal devotion and protection. It is especially important for mothers of boys and for women seeking blessings for childbirth. The festival is also known as Krishnashtami in some regions and holds special importance for childless couples, many of whom take a holy dip in Radha Kunda at Mathura.

Rituals and Observances

• Sankalp and Nirjala Vrat: Mothers take a pledge at dawn and observe a strict fast without food or water until star-sighting or moonrise.
• Drawing Ahoi Mata: An eight-cornered image of Ahoi Mata is drawn on the wall, along with a hedgehog (Sei) and her cubs.
• Karwa and Sarai Seenka: An earthen pot filled with water is sealed with Sarai Seenka grass and placed near the puja altar.
• Silver Syau Worship: In some communities, a silver form of Ahoi (Syau) is worshipped and later worn as a protective talisman.
• Food Offerings: Eight portions of puri, halwa, and pua are offered to the Goddess and then given to an elder or Brahmin.
• Vrat Katha and Aarti: Women gather to listen to the Ahoi Ashtami Vrat Katha, followed by aarti and blessings from elders.

Ahoi Ashtami Vrat Katha Summary

The vrat story recounts the tale of a moneylender’s wife who unknowingly killed a hedgehog cub while collecting mud. As a result, she lost all seven sons due to the curse of the hedgehog mother. Guided by an elder, she repented and worshipped Ahoi Mata annually, eventually being blessed with seven sons again. This tale forms the spiritual foundation of the Ahoi Ashtami tradition.