Ahoi Ashtami, Karwa Chauth Observed Together In Chandausi As Women Fast

Ahoi Ashtami was observed across Chandausi with faith, devotion and enthusiasm this time as well. The festival is celebrated on the Ashtami tithi of the Krishna Paksha in the month of Kartik. On the occasion, mothers observed a waterless fast throughout the day, praying for the long life, safety, happiness and prosperity of their children.

Preparations for the worship began in homes from the morning. Women took a bath and completed other preparations before placing a picture of Ahoi Mata on the wall. They then worshipped the deity according to the prescribed rituals.

After observing the fast throughout the day, the women gathered in the evening to listen to the traditional story of Ahoi Mata. The story highlights the importance of Ahoi Mata and the resolve to protect one’s children.

It is believed that observing the fast on this day and worshipping Ahoi Mata with a sincere heart removes all troubles that may come upon children and helps maintain happiness and peace in the home.

The occasion also coincided with Karwa Chauth. Because of this combination, several married women observed a fast for the long life of their husbands as well. Dressed in sixteen adornments, the women applied mehendi to their hands, wore new sarees and prepared decorated worship plates.

After seeing the moon late at night, the women went to the terrace and offered arghya to the moon. They then accepted water from their husbands and broke their fast.

The picture shows a couple in traditional attire standing with a worship plate. The woman is wearing a beautiful Banarasi saree, bangles and sixteen adornments. She is holding a worship plate containing a karwa, a lit diya, fruits and other पूजा सामग्री. The husband is standing beside his wife wearing a flower garland.

The scenic moment, captured on the terrace after the worship of the moon, presents a view of marital love, trust and Indian culture.

Bhajans and kirtans dedicated to Ahoi Mata were also organised at temples and in homes across the area. The markets remained busy throughout the day. Crowds of women gathered at shops selling पूजा सामग्री, fruits, flowers and items used for adornment.

According to religious teachers, the Ahoi Ashtami fast symbolises a mother’s love and sacrifice. On this day, mothers observe a difficult fast without food or water for the bright future of their children. The practice reflects their deep and unwavering affection for their children.

Rajat Malhotra.