Contents[hide]
Bhishma Ashtami 2025 is on Wednesday, 5th February
Important Timings On Bhishma Ashtami 2025
- Sunrise – February 05, 7:08 AM
- Sunset – February 05, 6:12 PM
- Ashtami Tithi Timings – February 05, 02:31 AM – February 06, 12:36 AM
The Story of Bhishma Pitamah
Bhishma Pitamah, originally named Devavrata, was the son of King Shantanu and Goddess Ganga. His life was marked by unparalleled devotion, sacrifice, and adherence to dharma. To fulfil his father’s wishes and ensure his happiness, Devavrata took a lifelong vow of celibacy and renounced his claim to the throne. This act of selflessness earned him the name “Bhishma,” meaning “one who took a terrible vow.”
Bhishma was a scholar, warrior, and statesman par excellence. Trained in martial arts and statecraft by revered teachers like Maharishi Parashurama and Shukracharya, he became a formidable warrior and a guiding force in the kingdom of Hastinapur. He was blessed with the boon of Iccha Mrityu (death at will) by his father, allowing him to choose the moment of his death.
During the Kurukshetra war, Bhishma sided with the Kauravas despite being aware of their unrighteousness, as he had pledged loyalty to the throne of Hastinapur. He was eventually defeated by Arjuna, who used Shikhandi as a shield. Fatally injured, Bhishma lay on a bed of arrows, waiting for the auspicious period of Uttarayan to relinquish his life, believing it would lead to salvation (moksha).
The Significance of Bhishma Ashtami
Bhishma left his mortal abode on the eighth day (Ashtami) of the Shukla Paksha in the month of Magha. It is believed that Bhishma, with his unwavering commitment to dharma, chose this auspicious day during Uttarayan to leave his mortal body and attain moksha (salvation) for a variety of reasons.Auspicious Timing
Bhishma Ashtami aligns with the holy period of Uttarayan, the time when the Sun begins its northward journey. Uttarayan is considered the most favourable time for spiritual activities, as it symbolizes light, growth, and divine grace. This sacred phase is believed to enhance the efficacy of rituals, making Bhishma Ashtami an ideal day for noble acts.Pitru Dosh Remedies
One of the key aspects of Bhishma Ashtami is its association with ancestral worship. The day offers a powerful opportunity to eliminate Pitru Dosh (ancestral curses) by performing specific rituals like tarpanam and shraddha. These acts of devotion are believed to ensure peace and liberation for the souls of one’s ancestors.Blessings for Progeny
Bhishma Ashtami is especially significant for childless couples whose acts of fasting and performing pujas result in the blessing of virtuous and obedient children. Thus, this Ashtami is a day that inspires spiritual growth and familial well-being. It is one of the most important days in the calendar and that is why Bhisham chose to give up his mortal abode on this day, thus having it named after him as Bhishma Ashtami.Rituals and Traditions of Bhishma Ashtami
Bhishma Ashtami is a sacred day when devotees honour the life and virtues of Bhishma Pitamah one of the most revered figures from the Mahabharata. This auspicious day is marked by various rituals and traditions performed with deep devotion and faith. These practices not only pay homage to Bhishma but also aim to invoke his blessings for spiritual and familial well-being.1. Ekodishta Shraddha
One of the key rituals performed on Bhishma Ashtami is the Ekodishta Shraddha, a special ceremony to pay homage to ancestors and Bhishma Pitamah. Traditionally, this ritual is performed by individuals whose fathers are no longer alive, as per Hindu customs. However, in some communities, this restriction is not observed, and anyone can perform the ritual to honour their ancestors. This act is believed to grant peace to the departed souls and foster harmony within the family.2. Tarpanam
Tarpanam, the ritual of offering water mixed with sesame seeds, is an essential practice on Bhishma Ashtami. Devotees perform this offering on the banks of sacred rivers, invoking the blessings of Bhishma Pitamah and their ancestors. This ritual is believed to free the souls of ancestors from worldly attachments and ensure their peace in the afterlife. Additionally, it helps devotees eliminate Pitru Dosh (ancestral curses) and brings prosperity to their lineage.3. Holy Bath
Taking a holy dip in sacred rivers like the Ganges is an important tradition on Bhishma Ashtami. Devotees believe that bathing in these purifying waters washes away sins and grants spiritual merit. During the holy bath, offerings of sesame seeds and boiled rice are made to the river as a mark of gratitude and devotion.4. Fasting and Puja
Observing a fast is a common practice on Bhishma Ashtami. Devotees take a sankalp (vow) to dedicate the day to Bhishma Pitamah. They perform puja by reciting mantras, offering arghyam (holy offerings), and lighting lamps in his honour. Fasting is believed to cleanse the mind and body, enabling devotees to focus on spiritual growth and devotion.5. Temple Celebrations
Temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu and ISKCON centres hold grand celebrations on Bhishma Ashtami. Special prayers, discourses, and rituals are conducted to honour Bhishma Pitamah. Devotees gather to participate in these events, seeking divine blessings and inspiration from Bhishma’s exemplary life.The Teachings of Bhishma Pitamah
Bhishma’s wisdom and teachings, imparted to Yudhishthira during his final days, are timeless and relevant even today. Some of his notable lessons include:- Forgiveness and Peace: Free yourself from anger and practice forgiveness to attain inner peace.
- Complete Your Duties: Avoid leaving tasks incomplete, as they create negativity and hinder progress.
- Non-Attachment: Do not become overly attached to material possessions or relationships.
- Follow Dharma: Always uphold righteousness in thought, word, and deed.
- Compassion and Protection: Work hard, be compassionate, and protect others.
The Benefits of Bhishma Ashtami Vrat and Puja
Observing Bhishma Ashtami vrat and performing the associated rituals offer several spiritual benefits:- Blessings for Children: Couples observing the vrat are believed to be blessed with virtuous and obedient progeny.
- Ancestral Peace: Performing tarpanam and shraddha ensures peace and liberation for ancestors’ souls.
- Removal of Pitru Dosh: Devotees can rid themselves of ancestral curses and sins through the rituals of this day.
- Spiritual Growth: The puja and fasting cleanse the mind and soul, leading to spiritual elevation and good fortune.
Celebrations Across India
Bhishma Ashtami is observed with immense devotion and reverence in various parts of India, honouring the virtues and teachings of Bhishma Pitamah. In Bengal, this day holds special significance, with devotees performing elaborate rituals and pujas to pay homage to their ancestors and Bhishma. Sacred offerings, fasting, and prayers are central to the observance. In ISKCON temples and shrines dedicated to Lord Vishnu, grand celebrations mark the occasion. Special prayers, discourses on Bhishma’s life, and devotional songs fill the temples with spiritual fervour. Devotees gather to seek blessings and imbibe the values of righteousness and selflessness that Bhishma epitomized. Acts of charity, including feeding the needy and distributing offerings, are common across regions, reflecting Bhishma’s compassion and dedication to dharma. The day serves as a reminder of his unwavering commitment to duty, inspiring devotees to lead a life of integrity and devotion.Conclusion
Bhishma Ashtami is not merely a day of rituals; it is an opportunity to reflect on the profound values of duty, sacrifice, and righteousness embodied by Bhishma Pitamah. By observing the vrat and performing the prescribed rituals, devotees can seek spiritual growth, ancestral blessings, and freedom from sins. Bhishma’s life continues to inspire generations, reminding us to uphold dharma and lead a life of virtue and integrity.
