Bhishma Ashtami
Bhishma Ashtami or ‘Bhishmashtami’ is a Hindu festival dedicated to ‘Bhishma’ of the great Indian epic ‘Mahabharata’. It is believed that Bhishma, also known as ‘Ganga Putr Bhism’ or ‘Bhishma Pitamaha’ departed from his soul on this chosen day. This occurred during the propitious ‘Uttarayan period’ that is, the daytime of Devas. Bhishma Ashtami is observed on the ‘Ashtami’ (8th day) of the Shukla Paksha (bright fortnight of moon) of the month of ‘Magha’ in the Hindu calendar. It corresponds to the month of January-February as per the English calendar.
Bhishma Ashtami is observed by Hindus in different parts f the county and abroad. In the state of Bengal special puja and rituals are held during the day. Bhishma Ashtami is observed as the death anniversary of the most prominent character of Mahabharata, Bhishma Pitamah. He was the most revered character of Mahabharata. This day is celebrated with great dedication and fervor in ISKCON Temples and Lord Vishnu temples all over the country.
Significance during Bhishma Ashtami
Bhishma Pitamah was known for his celibacy and he observed it all through his life. Owing to this persistent devotion and loyalty to his father, Bhishma Pitamah was bestowed with the power to choose his time of death. When he got injured during the great war of Mahabharata, he did not leave his body and waited for the auspicious day of Magha Shukla Ashtami to meet the supreme soul. In Hinduism, the period when Suryadev (Sun God) moves in the south direction, is considered ominous and all the propitious activities are postponed till the time Sun God moves back in the northern direction. During the Ashtami of the Magha month, this northern movement is initiated, known as the ‘Uttarayan’ period. The day of Bhishma Ashtami is considered favorable to perform any auspicious activity all day long.
The day of Bhishma Ashtami is also important for people to get rid of ‘Putra dosh’. Childless couples, as well as newly married couples, observe a strict fast on this day, in order to be blessed with a son soon. It is believed that by getting the blessings of Bhishma Pitamah on this day, couples will be blessed with a male child, who will possess the qualities of Pitamah.