Jitiya Puja Vidhi you should be aware of while perfoming Fasting this year.
Jitiya, also known as Jivitputrika Vrat, is a fasting ritual observed by Hindu mothers for the well-being and longevity of their children, especially sons. The rituals associated with Jitiya may vary slightly from region to region, but here are the common practices and rituals you should be aware of:
- Choosing the Date: Jitiya fasting is typically observed on the Ashtami (eighth day) of the Krishna Paksha (dark fortnight) during the Hindu month of Ashwin. The specific date may vary from year to year, so it’s essential to consult a Hindu calendar or a priest to determine the exact date.
- Mental Preparation: Understand the significance of Jitiya fasting and the rituals involved. It’s important to approach the fast with a focused and positive mindset.
- Bath and Dress: On the day of Jitiya, mothers wake up early, take a ritualistic bath to purify themselves, and wear clean and traditional attire.
- Mangala Gauri Puja: The day starts with the Mangala Gauri puja, dedicated to the goddess for the well-being and longevity of children. This puja involves offering prayers, lighting lamps (deepas), and making offerings to the goddess.
- Fasting: Mothers observing Jitiya fast abstain from both food and water from sunrise to sunset. It is a strict fast that requires discipline and dedication. The fasting period typically lasts for the entire day.
- Prayer and Meditation: During the fasting hours, mothers often engage in prayer, meditation, or reading of religious texts to pass the time and stay focused on the purpose of the fast.
- Breaking the Fast: The fast is broken only after sunset. The meal is usually simple and includes fruits, milk, and other light dishes. It’s common to break the fast by offering some of the food to a cow and her calf before consuming it.
- Offering to the Moon and Sun: After breaking the fast, mothers offer prayers to the setting sun and the rising moon. This is done to seek blessings for their children’s long and prosperous lives.
- Touching Elders’ Feet: As a mark of respect and humility, mothers often touch the feet of their elders and seek their blessings.
- Charitable Acts: Many people choose to perform acts of charity and kindness on this day, such as donating to the poor or helping those in need.
- Sharing the Experience: Mothers often share their fasting experience and the significance of Jitiya with family and friends. They may also encourage others to observe this fast if they wish.
- Rest and Recovery: After breaking the fast, it’s important to get adequate rest and nourishment to recover from the day of fasting.
