Jitiya, also known as Jivitputrika Vrat, is a unique and culturally significant festival celebrated predominantly in the Indian states of Bihar, Jharkhand, and parts of Nepal. This festival is observed by mothers for the well-being and longevity of their children. Let's delve into the Jitiya Vrat 2023 date and significance of the Jitiya festival and explore how it is traditionally celebrated. Chaurchan Puja 2023 Date, Significance & Rituals: Why Do People of Mithila Worship Lord Ganesha and the Moon on This Special Day?

Jitiya 2023: Date and Significance

The Jitiya festival is celebrated on the eighth day of the Krishna Paksha (the dark fortnight) in the lunar month of Ashwin. Typically, it falls in September or October, according to the Gregorian calendar. This day holds immense cultural and religious significance for mothers who observe the fast and pray for the prosperity and long life of their offsprings.

The word "Jitiya" is derived from the Sanskrit word "Jivita," which means "life." It is believed that observing this festival can safeguard the life and health of children, protecting them from illnesses and misfortunes.

How to Celebrate Jitiya

Fasting: Jitiya is primarily observed by mothers, and the central ritual is fasting. Mothers abstain from consuming food and water for the entire day, from sunrise to sunset, as a mark of their devotion to their children.

Preparations: The day before Jitiya, women prepare a special meal known as "khar," which includes various dishes made from lentils and vegetables. This meal is meant to be eaten after the fast is broken the following evening.

Rituals: On the day of Jitiya, mothers perform various rituals and prayers. They wake up early, take a bath, and visit a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva or Goddess Parvati, where they offer prayers and seek blessings for their children's well-being.

Fast-Breaking: The fast is broken only after sunset, and mothers traditionally break their fast with the khar meal prepared the previous day. It is often enjoyed with family members and friends, and it symbolizes the successful completion of the fast.

Offerings: Some families also perform rituals involving the creation of a small representation of their children using cow dung or clay. This figurine is then offered to the sun as a form of worship.

The Jitiya festival is an occasion for mothers to come together, share their experiences, and strengthen bonds within the community. Women often visit each other's homes to exchange blessings and celebrate together.

Jitiya, or Jivitputrika Vrat, is a heartfelt and culturally significant festival that celebrates the love and devotion of mothers towards their children. It serves as a reminder of the profound role mothers play in their children's lives and the lengths to which they will go to ensure their well-being. As India continues to celebrate this unique festival, it highlights the importance of family, tradition, and the enduring spirit of maternal love.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 22, 2023 02:00 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).