Ahoi Ashtami अहोई अष्टमी
Mothers fast for the wellbeing of their children. Observed 8 days before Diwali.
- Deity
- Ahoi Mata
- Mantra
- ॐ अहोई मात्रे नमः
Why it matters
Mothers observe a rigorous fast and pray to Ahoi Mata (the divine mother goddess) for the long life, health, and prosperity of their children. Falling eight days before Diwali during Krishna Paksha of Kartik month, the festival embodies a mother's unconditional love and willingness to sacrifice for her offspring. The story of Ahoi Mata teaches compassion and divine protection.
How it is observed
Drawing the image of Ahoi Mata and her children on the wall, offering water and prayers to the stars at dusk, narrating the Ahoi Mata katha (sacred story), preparing puri and halwa as offerings, breaking the fast only after sighting the stars.
Fasting
Nirjala fast from dawn to dusk
For your practice
Maternal love meditation on the protective energy of the divine mother; chanting of Ahoi Mata's name with each breath; visualization of divine light surrounding one's children.
Ahoi Ashtami — Dates
- Sunday, 1 November 20262026
- Friday, 22 October 20272027
- Wednesday, 11 October 20282028
- Tuesday, 30 October 20292029
- Saturday, 19 October 20302030
Dates are for India (IST). Tithi timings shift by location; the Tattva app works them out for your city.
Get a reminder before it comes
Tattva reminds you the day before, shows the day’s panchang and has the puja and mantra ready.
Greeting cards in Hindi and English are on your home screen a week before.
