In Hinduism, Akhoi Ashtami holds special significance as mothers observe this fast hoping for the long life, good health, and happy lives of their children. On this day, Akhoi Mata is revered, and there is a tradition of offering (Arghya) to the stars in the evening.
According to the Panchang, this fast is observed annually on the eighth day (Ashtami) of the dark month of Kartik. However, due to discrepancies in the start and end times of the fast, misunderstandings often arise regarding the exact date. In 2026, there are also questions about the date of Akhoi Ashtami. To dispel doubts, we consult astrologer Pravin Mishra to learn the exact date of the fast, the rules for conducting it, auspicious times, and the history of Akhoi Mata.
When will Akhoi Ashtami be in 2026?
According to the Panchang, the Ashtami of the dark month of Kartik begins on November 1, 2026, at 14:51. It concludes on November 2, 2026, at 13:10. Therefore, according to the rising date (Udayati), the Akhoi Ashtami fast will be observed on November 1.
Auspicious time for Akhoi Ashtami in 2026
Auspicious time for worship during Akhoi Ashtami: from 16:59 to 18:15. Time for observing the stars: around 17:22. Moonrise time: around 23:05.
How to observe the Akhoi Ashtami fast
On the day of Akhoi Ashtami, one should take a bath and perform ablutions early in the morning. After this, the ritual should be performed in the home temple, and a decision should be made to observe the fast for the well-being of the offspring. Throughout the day, all fasting rules must be followed. In the evening, preparations should be made for the worship of Akhoi Mata. For the worship, an image or picture of Akhoi Mata is placed; in some homes, an image of Akhoi Mata is also drawn on the wall.
During the worship, offerings of flowers, rice, and other tributes should be made. In the evening, worship of Akhoi Mata is conducted, after which a story about the fast is read or listened to. Then, one must observe the stars and offer them Arghya. Concluding the ritual, prayers are offered for the long life, good health, and prosperity of the family's descendants.
Who is Akhoi Mata?
Akhoi Mata is considered a form of Goddess Durga. According to religious beliefs, the Akhoi Ashtami fast is observed with the wish for longevity, strong health, and a happy life for the descendants. On this day, mothers worship Akhoi Mata according to established rituals. It is believed that worshipping and observing the Akhoi Mata fast brings happiness and prosperity to the descendants' lives, as well as well-being to the family.
History of the Akhoi Ashtami fast
According to an ancient legend, there lived a merchant in a city who had seven sons, seven daughters-in-law, and one daughter. Before Diwali, preparations began for cleaning and renovating the house. For this, the merchant's seven daughters-in-law and daughter went to the forest to dig land. While digging the earth, the merchant's daughter's infant died. When Sehu learned about this, she was very upset and angry. She decided to curse the merchant's daughter. Then the youngest daughter-in-law stepped forward and offered to take the curse instead of her sister-in-law.
After this, misfortunes began to happen to the youngest daughter-in-law's children, and she started suffering from grief. Family members also became worried about her condition. Then a wise pandit advised her to serve Mother Cow (Gau). He explained that the grace of Mother Cow could relieve her from suffering. The youngest daughter-in-law began to sincerely serve Mother Cow. The joy from her devotion and service prompted Gau to help her, and Sehu, pleased with her devotion, lifted her curse. After this, happiness returned to the youngest daughter-in-law's life, and prosperity returned to her family, and her descendants received the blessing of a happy life.