What is Jivitputrika Vrat, Why and When is it Observed?
By Intimate Viewpoint
Jivitputrika Vrat—also known as Jitiya Vrat—will be observed on Sunday, 14 September 2025, corresponding to the Ashtami (eighth day) of Krishna Paksha in the Hindu lunar month of Ashwin.
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Vrats & Festivals, celebrated In September 2025
Structure of the Festival: Three Sacred Days
Day 1: Nahai-Khai (Bath and Eat)
On Saturday, 13 September 2025, the vrat begins with Nahai-Khai: devotees take a ritual bath and then eat a simple vegetarian meal—typically prepared with ghee and pink salt. This meal serves as the last food intake before the rigorous fast begins .
Day 2: Jivitputrika Vrat (Main Fast)
On Sunday, 14 September 2025, participants observe a Nirjala fast—abstaining from both food and water—throughout the day and night. The fast centers on worship, devotional singing, and telling the vrat story (the Katha). Offerings are made to Lord Vishnu, Lord Shiva, Lord Ganesha, Mother Goddess, and symbolic representations of Jimutavahana, an eagle, and a jackal—emphasizing life, protection, and motherly love .
Day 3: Paaran (Breaking the Fast)
On Monday, 15 September 2025, after the Ashtami Tithi concludes at 3:06 AM, the fast is broken during Paaran. Typical fare includes Kaddu ki Kheer, curry rice, noni (portulaca oleracea) saag, and marua (ragi) roti—simple but nourishing foods deeply rooted in traditional practice .
Key timings (local India time):
Ashtami Tithi starts: 5:04 AM on 14 September 2025
Ashtami Tithi ends: 3:06 AM on 15 September 2025 .
Mythological and Cultural Significance
The Legend
A Mother's Devotion and the Legend of King Jimutavahana
The vrat commemorates maternal love and sacrifice through the story of King Jimutavahana, who saved a serpent child from being sacrificed to Garuda by offering himself instead. His act of deep compassion impressed Garuda so much that he canceled the sacrifice ritual forever . This tale is central to the vrat’s narrative.
Another mythological origin links the vrat to the time when Lord Krishna rescued the unborn child in Uttara’s womb—who was named “Jeevitputrika,” giving rise to the name of the fast .
Cultural Roots in Eastern India
Jivitputrika Vrat holds special significance in Bihar, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh, and in Nepal (where it is known as Jitiya). It symbolizes mothers' devotion to the well-being and longevity of their children and is one of the most spiritually intense rituals, second only to Chhath in its perceived difficulty and religious depth .
Rituals & Puja Vidhi
Preparation and Worship Elements
Morning: Devotees bathe (both mothers and idols), then begin fasting.
Worship: Puja involves lighting lamps, incense and offering flowers, garlands, rice grains, husk, and sometimes mustard oil .
Symbolism: Clay or cow-dung figurines of eagle and jackal are sometimes created and worshipped with curd, flattened rice, cucumber, and vermilion applied to their foreheads .
Post-Fast Rituals
After Paaran, mustard oil used during the puja is applied to the children’s heads as a protective blessing.
Significance and Contemporary Relevance
Spiritual Strength & Mother's Resolve: The vrat is considered among the most stringent—mirroring deep devotion and self-sacrifice for one’s children’s well-being .
Cultural Heritage: Especially strong in eastern India and Nepal, the vrat fosters community, shared rituals, and intergenerational bonds .
Modern Outlook: Though traditionally focused on sons, there’s a growing emphasis across communities on observing the fast for all children, reflecting evolving values of gender equality and inclusivity .
Expression of Maternal Love: Jivitputrika Vrat stands as a testament to enduring, universal maternal devotion transcending time, culture, and tradition.
Summary Overview Table
Aspect Details
Date Sunday, 14 September 2025
Tithi Krishna Paksha Ashtami, Ashwin month
Day 1 – Nahai-Khai 13 Sep 2025 – bath and eat
Day 2 – Vrat 14 Sep 2025 – Nirjala fast, worship, Katha
Day 3 – Paaran 15 Sep 2025 – break fast after tithi ends
Start/End of Tithi 5:04 AM (14 Sep) → 3:06 AM (15 Sep)
Key Deities & Symbols Jimutavahana, eagle, jackal, Vishnu, Shiva, Ganesha, Mother Goddess
Regional Significance Prominent in Bihar, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh, Nepal
Core Meaning Mother's sacrifice and resilience for children's longevity and prosperity
In Closing
Jivitputrika Vrat 2025 is a deeply moving and culturally rich Hindu observance, centered on Sunday, 14 September 2025. It embodies a timeless story of courage, compassion, and maternal devotion—bringing communities together through symbolic fasting, worship, and storytelling.
This sacred festival not only preserves ancient beliefs but also adapts with the changing spirit of modern society, embracing inclusive prayers for the well-being of all children, regardless of gender.
May the vrat bring blessings of longevity, health, and joy to every child, and may the mothers' unwavering dedication continue to inspire and uplift.
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