Bhishma Ashtami 2025: Date, Time, Significance And Rituals Of This Sacred Fast

Bhishma Ashtami 2025: Hindus celebrate Bhishma Ashtami to honour Bhishma, a revered figure from the Indian epic, Mahabharata. According to legend, Bhishma departed from his physical body on this day, during the auspicious Uttarayan period. This significant event is commemorated on the eighth day of the bright fortnight of the moon in the Hindu month of Magha. Devotees observe Bhishma Ashtami to pay tribute to Bhishma's remarkable life and legacy, seeking inspiration from his exemplary character and selfless deeds. This year, Bhishma Ashtami will be observed on 5th February 2025, Wednesday.

Check out the date, time, significance and rituals of this sacred fast below:

Bhishma Ashtami 2025: Date And Time

- Bhishma Ashtami 2025: 5th February 2025, Wednesday 

- Ashtami Tithi Begins: 02:30 AM, 5th February 2025

- Ashtami Tithi Ends: 12:35 AM, 6th February 2025

- Madhyana Time: 11:24 AM to 01:43 PM

Bhishma Ashtami 2025: Significance

Bhishma Pitamah, a revered figure in Hinduism was known for his unwavering devotion and loyalty to his father. As a reward for his celibacy and dedication, he was granted the power to choose his time of death. When he was injured during the Mahabharata war, Bhishma Pitamah waited for the auspicious day of Magha Shukla Ashtami to depart from his physical body. This day marks the beginning of the Uttarayan period, a time when the Sun God moves northwards, initiating a favourable period for auspicious activities.

Bhishma Ashtami is also significant for couples seeking to conceive a male child. Childless couples and newlyweds observe a strict fast on this day, seeking Bhishma Pitamah's blessings to beget a son with qualities like his. It is believed that by worshipping Bhishma Pitamah on this day, couples can overcome 'putra dosh' and be blessed with a male child. This sacred day offers a unique opportunity for devotees to seek the blessings of Bhishma Pitamah and fulfil their desires.

Hindus celebrate Bhishma Ashtami to honour Bhishma's remarkable life and legacy, commemorating his departure from the physical body during the auspicious Uttarayan period. (Image Source: ISKCON) 

Bhishma Ashtami 2025: Rituals

On Bhishma Ashtami, devotees honour Bhishma Pitamah by performing various rituals. One of these is 'Ekodishta Shraddha', a purification ritual that's traditionally reserved for those whose fathers have passed away, although some communities allow anyone to participate. Another significant ritual is 'tarpan', where devotees offer prayers and water to their ancestors and Bhishma Pitamah on riverbanks, seeking peace for his soul.

Bhishma Ashtami Snan is another essential ritual, where taking a holy dip in rivers like the Ganga is considered highly auspicious. While bathing, devotees offer boiled rice and sesame seeds to the river, believing this act washes away their sins and frees them from the cycle of birth and death. After the bath, most devotees observe a strict fast to pay tribute to King Bhishma.

The day's rituals conclude with an evening 'Arghyam' ceremony, where devotees chant the 'Bhishma Ashtami Mantra' to seek blessings and forgiveness. By observing these rituals, devotees demonstrate their reverence for Bhishma Pitamah and seek his guidance and protection.

(Disclaimer: This is based on general public information. Jagran English does not confirm its veracity. Before adopting any measures, consult an expert in the relevant field.)

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