Jivitputrika Vrat 2025 : Unpacking the Ancient Tradition of a Mother's Sacrifice

For mothers in many parts of India, there is no fast more significant or demanding than Jitiya, also known as Jivitputrika Vrat. This three-day festival is a powerful expression of a mother's selfless love and her deepest prayers for the long life, well-being, and prosperity of her children. Celebrated with immense devotion, particularly in Bihar, Jharkhand, and Uttar Pradesh, it is considered one of the most challenging fasts, often compared to the rigors of Chhath Puja.Key Dates and Timings for 2025In 2025, the Jivitputrika Vrat will span three days, with the main fasting day observed onSunday, September 14th.Here are the important timings to keep in mind:Nahay-Khay: Saturday, September 13, 2025. This is the first day, where mothers take a holy bath and consume a simple, sattvic meal before the fast begins.Nirjala Fasting Day: Sunday, September 14, 2025. Mothers undertake a strict 'nirjala' fast, abstaining from both food and water for the entire day and nightParana (Breaking the Fast): Monday, September 15, 2025. The fast is broken after sunrise on this day.According to the Hindu calendar, the fast is observed on the Ashtami Tithi (eighth day) of the Krishna Paksha in the month of Ashwin.Ashtami Tithi Begins: 5:04 AM on September 14, 2025Ashtami Tithi Ends: 3:06 AM on September 15, 2025Parana Time: After 6:26 AM on September 15, 2025The Heart of the Vrat: Rituals and SignificanceThe Jitiya Vrat is a beautiful and profound tradition steeped in maternal love.The First Day (Nahay-Khay): The observance begins with 'Nahay-Khay', a day of preparation. Mothers wake up early, bathe, and eat a pure, vegetarian meal, often cooked with rock salt and ghee.This meal is the last one before the arduous fast commences.The Day of the Fast: On the main day, mothers do not consume a single drop of water. They dedicate their day to prayers and worship of Lord Jimutavahana, a benevolent Gandharva prince who is central to the story of this vrat. Women gather in groups to sing devotional songs and narrate the Vrat Katha (the stories associated with the fast).Breaking the Fast (Parana): On the third day, after completing the fast, mothers offer prayers and then break their fast with a simple meal.The essence of this demanding observance is the belief that a mother's sacrifice and devotion can protect her children from all harm and ensure they lead long, healthy, and successful lives.The Story That Inspires GenerationsThe tradition of Jivitputrika Vrat is tied to a powerful legend about the compassionate prince Jimutavahana. According to the story, he offered himself to the mythical bird Garuda to save the life of a young serpent who was destined to be sacrificed Touched by Jimutavahana's selflessness, Garuda promised to never harm any serpent again. Since that day, mothers have observed this fast, praying to Lord Jimutavahana to protect their children with the same unwavering spirit of sacrifice Another popular tale is that of the eagle and the she-fox, which emphasizes the importance of observing the fast with true devotion.Jivitputrika Vrat is more than a ritual; it is a testament to the boundless love and inner strength of a mother, a spiritual practice that deepens the unbreakable bond she shares with her children.