Jivitputrika is a  three-day Hindu festival in which mothers fast for the well being of their children. It is a three-day-long festival celebrated from the seventh to the ninth lunar day of Krishna Paksha in the month of Ashwin as per the Hindu calendar. Jivitputrika also is known as Jitiya is majorly observed in the North Indian states. Jivitputrika rituals are conducted at riverbanks of Ganges. Jivitputrika is also observed in Bihar, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal, other than parts of Nepal. For Jitika women observe Nirjala Vrat (water-less fast)for 33 hours. The festival will begin on Sep 21, 2019, (Saturday) and end on September 23, 2019, (Monday). Jivitputrika Vrat 2019 will be observed on September 22 (Sunday).
Being three-day observance, the day before Jivitputrika is known as Nahai-khai. Mothers observing the day, take bath early in the morning and only then have food. On the second day which is Jivitputrika day, they observe a strict fast called Khur Jitiya and abstain from food and water. On the third day, they end the fast with Paaran, which the first food of the day. The observance is quite popular in Mithila, Tharuhat region of northeastern Bihar and eastern Nepal. On the third day, dishes like Jhor Bhaat, Noni ka saag and Madua ki Roti are prepared.

Jivit Putrika Muhurat

Ashtami Tithi Begins - 08:21 pm on Sep 21, 2019

Ashtami Tithi Ends - 07:50 pm on Sep 22, 2019

Jivitputrika Vrat Story

According to Hindu mythology, once a fox and an eagle lived in the jungles of Himalaya near the Narmada river. See women performing fasts for their children, they also did the same. But in the process, fox became unconscious because of the hunger and had food secretly. But on the other hand, eagle completed the fast. Hence all children born to the fox perished but those of the eagle's offspring were blessed with long life.

According to another story, Jimutavahana, the king of Gandharva came across a woman who was mourning for her son. He told her that as she belonged to the family of snakes, and her only son was to be offered to Pakshiraj Garuda as food. Jimutavahana decided to present himself as the fodder for the eagle. But Garuda asked the King for his identity and asked him the reason. After knowing about his generosity, Garuda never troubled the race of snakes again. Hence mother's fast for the wellbeing and long life of their children on this day.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 19, 2019 08:45 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).