Bhishma Ashtami is an important day in Hindufestival calender marking the death anniversary of Bhishma.
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Welcome to the world of resolute readings at www.onindianpath.com. Lets peep into the meaning, date, significance and rituals of Bhishma Ashtami 2025.
Introduction
Hinduism is a religion based on values, righteousness, virtues and life teachings. Bhishma Pitamah is one of the great personalities from the great epic, the Mahabharata.
What is Bhishma Ashtami?
Bhishma’s death anniversary, is observed on Magha Shukla Ashtami, the eighth day of Magha mas. Also, it is popularly known as Bhishma Ashtami. According to legend, Bhishma waited 58 days so that he could pass on the auspicious day of Uttarayana, when the sun begins its northward journey after Dakshinayana. Therefore, Hindus believe that those who die during Uttarayana attain heaven.
Who is Bhishma?
Bhishma is a well-known character from the great Hindu epic, the Mahabharata. Also known as Pitamaha, Gangaputra, and Devavrata, he stands as one of the most awe-inspiring figures in this epic.
However, his life journey as a prince, statesman, and warrior in the ancient Kuru kingdom is, without a doubt, legendary. With each title he bore, Bhishma represented strength, loyalty and honour.
From the very moment of his birth as the youngest son of King Shantanu and the river goddess Ganga, Bhishma’s path was set apart by fate. Although he was destined for greatness, his journey was shaped by sacrifices that few could imagine.
As a young prince, Devavrata had the world at his feet. Yet, out of devotion to his father, he gave up his right to the throne and took a vow of lifelong celibacy. This sacrifice was so profound that he became known as Bhishma—the one who took a terrible vow.
Thus, in return, his father blessed him with the power to choose the time of his death also known as Ichamrityu. Later, in the Kurukshetra War, Bhishma served as the supreme commander of the Kaurava forces. Also, he fulfilled his duty as protector of the kingdom, even if it meant fighting against his beloved grandsons, the Pandavas.
Additionally, he witnessed the entire Mahabharata unfold, from his father’s reign to the events leading to war, gaining unmatched wisdom.
On the tenth day of the battle, Arjuna, with Shikhandi’s aid, struck Bhishma down and left him lying on a bed of arrows.
Ichamrityu of Bhishma Pitamah
Even in his final moments, Bhishma’s spirit was unshaken. For 58 nights, he lay on the arrow bed, waiting for the auspicious time of Uttarayana to depart from his body. Before leaving, he shared his knowledge with Yudhishthira, passing down the sacred Vishnu Sahasranama.
Inspiration form Bhishma
Bhishma’s life is more than just a story; it’s a legacy of devotion, wisdom, and sacrifice that continues to inspire. He reminds us of the strength to make difficult choices and the courage to live by them, embodying the timeless power of commitment and honor.
Date and Tithi of Bhishma Ashtami 2025
According to Hindu Panchang, Bhishma Ashtami falls on ashtami (eighth) tithi of Shukla Paksha of Magh mas.
Apparently, we have Bhishma Ashtami falling on Wednesday, February 5, 2025. Besides, the Maddhyan time will start at 11:26 AM till 01:38 PM. And, the duration will be of 02 Hours 12 Minutes.
Moreover, the Ashtami Tithi will start on February 05, 2025 at 02:30 AM and end up on February 06, 2025 at 12:35 AM.
Significance of Bhishma Ashtami 2025
As we all know, Bhishma Ashtami, honours the death anniversary of Bhishma Pitamah, the noble hero of the great epic, the Mahabharata. This day holds profound significance for Hindus. On this day, many people perform Ekodishta Shraddha in his memory, believing it’s a tribute anyone can offer, regardless of their own father’s status.
Ekodishta Shraddha is a purification ritual. It is believed that this Shradh can only be performed by individuals who do not have a father in their lives. However, the tarpan of Bhishma, on the other hand, is observed in numerous areas, and everyone follows it.
Rituals on Bhishma Ashtami 2025
- Firstly, devotees wake up early in the morning. Have a holy dip in nearby river or pond. Observe fast and perform tarpan.
- And, people also offer sesame seeds, water and kusha to Bhishma Pitamah as Tarpan.
- Furthermore, many astrologers advise performing Pitru Dosha puja on this day.
- On this auspicious day, bathing in sacred rivers holds great significance.
- Furthermore, devotees also observe important rituals by offering sesame seeds and boiled rice into the holy river.
- People consider this day opt to pay respect to legendary Bhishma.
- Additionally, devotees believe that offering prayers to Bhishma on this day destroys all sins.
- In addition to, couples who have Putra Dosh in their horoscope, observe fast on this day to obtain blessings of being paremt to a son.
- Laslty, people must recite the given mantra on this fortunate day :
वैयाघ्रपदगोत्राय सांकृत्यप्रवराय च।गंगापुत्राय भीष्माय सर्वदा ब्रह्मचारिणे।।भीष्म: शान्तनवो वीर: सत्यवादी जितेन्द्रिय:।आभिरभिद्रवाप्नोतु पुत्रपौत्रोचितां क्रियाम्।।
Conclusion
At the end, I would like to conclude on Bhishma Ashtami 2025. As it reminds us of Bhishma Pitamah’s values and the lessons we can bring into our own lives. To find inner peace, he teaches us to let go of anger and embrace forgiveness. Infact, he also shows us the importance of completing all tasks with dedication, as unfinished work can invite negativity. Bhishma’s life encourages us not to get overly attached to possessions or people but to stay grounded in our purpose. Prioritizing dharma—living by principles of righteousness and duty—should guide all our actions. By working hard, protecting others, and showing compassion, we can embody Bhishma’s strength and wisdom in our daily lives.
Have a blessed time ahead.
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