Ahoi Ashtami 2096

On the Ashtami of Krishna Paksha in Kartika, eight days before Diwali and about four days after Karwa Chauth. This year's date is shown above.

Traditionally at the sighting of the stars (the Saptarishi cluster), with arghya offered from the karwa. In parts of Punjab and Haryana it is broken at moonrise instead, which comes much later at night.

Mothers keep it for the long life and wellbeing of their children. Women who wish for a child also keep it, praying to Ahoi Mata, a form of Parvati as the guardian of children.

A small string of silver beads representing the goddess, worshipped with the Ahoi image. A bead is often added each year and the string is passed down within the family; it is kept whole.