The month of Ashwin has begun today, September 8th, and will continue until October 7th. During this month, Pitru Paksha, Shardiya Navratri, and other major festivals will be celebrated. Devotees can ensure their religious devotion and family happiness by observing important festivals and fasts such as Indira Ekadashi, Jivitputrika Vrat, Sarvapitri Amavasya, Durga Ashtami, Maha Navami, Vijayadashami, and Sharad Purnima.
Ashwin Month: The seventh month of the Hindu calendar began today, Monday, September 8th, and will conclude on October 7th. This month is marked by the observance of Pitru Paksha, Navratri, and other significant festivals. Devotees will perform Shraddha and Tarpan for their ancestors, offer prayers to Goddess Durga, and participate in various fasts during this period. This religiously significant month also holds importance from a social and cultural perspective, as it promotes devotion and familial well-being.
Pitru Paksha and Shraddha Tradition
The month of Ashwin commences with Pitru Paksha, which will be observed from September 8th to September 21st. During this period, devotees offer food to their ancestors and perform Shraddha and Tarpan, praying for the peace of their souls. In the year 2025, the first Shraddha of Pitru Paksha is scheduled for September 8th.
Jivitputrika Vrat and Indira Ekadashi
Jivitputrika Vrat will be celebrated on September 14th, during the Ashtami tithi of Krishna Paksha. Mothers perform special prayers for the long life and health of their sons. Meanwhile, Indira Ekadashi, observed on the Ekadashi of Krishna Paksha, falls on September 17th. Observing this fast is believed to grant liberation from the torments of Yamlok to ancestors and bestow them with salvation.
Sarvapitri Amavasya and Navratri
September 21st marks Sarvapitri Amavasya, the final and most significant day of Pitru Paksha. On this day, devotees who may not have performed Shraddha for their ancestors can do so in a prescribed manner. The following day, September 22nd, marks the beginning of Shardiya Navratri, a nine-day festival dedicated to the worship of Goddess Durga.
Navratri and Major Festivals
- Saraswati Avahan: September 29th, the first day of Navratri puja.
- Durga Ashtami: September 30th.
- Maha Navami: October 1st.
- Vijayadashami (Dussehra): October 2nd.
- Papankusha Ekadashi: October 3rd.
- Sharad Purnima: October 6th.
These festivals and fasts in the month of Ashwin hold significant religious, social, and cultural importance. Devotees can ensure prosperity for their families and society by performing worship and rituals with devotion during this month.
