In July 2024, the Ashtami dates and times are July 13, 2024, at 3:06 PM to July 14, 2024, at 5:26 PM for Shukla Paksha Ashtami and July 27, 2024, at 9:20 PM to July 28, 2024, at 7:28 PM for Krishna Paksha Ashtami.
Ashtami July 2024 Date And Time
In Hinduism, Ashtami is regarded as a significant holiday. On the day of Ashtami, people worship and fast in honor of Goddess Durga. Every Hindu month, on the Ashtami date of Shukla Paksha, the Durgashtami fast is observed.
This fast is also known as Goddess Durga’s monthly fast. In the Hindu calendar, Ashtami occurs twice: once during Krishna Paksha and once during Shukla Paksha. Goddess Durga observes a fast on Shukla Paksha’s Ashtami.
In 2024, there will be two ashtami in July. Shukla Paksha Ashtami and Krishna Paksha Ashtami. The Shukla Paksha Ashtami will start at Jul 13, 3:06 pm to Jul 14, 5:26 pm and the Krishna Paksha Ashtami begins on July 27, 9:20 pm to Jul 28, 7:28 pm.
What is the history and significance of Shukla Ashtami?
Goddess Durga is the fierce warrior goddess associated with strength, protection, and the removal of negativity. Shukla Ashtami is devoted to her. Those who observe this day with devotion think that doing so will bring blessings for succeeding in life and overcoming setbacks.
Shukla Paksha Ashtami, the eighth day of the waxing phase of the Moon, is considered a fortunate day to channel the energies of goddesses such as Durga, Pratyangira, and Varahi.
It is believed that performing Pooja, prayers, and mantra chanting on this day will protect you from evil forces. Taking up the potent energy of these Goddesses could also act as a defense against the negative effects of heavenly bodies.
Significance of Krishna Paksha Ashtami
The 23rd Tithi (lunar day) is Krishna Paksha Ashtami, also referred to as “Kala Ashtami” because the day’s ruling deity is Lord Shiva’s ferocious form, Kala Bhairava. Shiva’s wrath is embodied in Bhairava, also referred to as Vairavar in Tamil.
On the waning day of Ashtami Tithi, worshiping Bhairava can help you get rid of bad vibrations, bad karma, and negative energies. Satisfying the divine will will also guarantee self-assurance and resolve.
In general, the day is not regarded as auspicious for beginning a new business, getting married, getting educated, building a house, or traveling.
Feeding stray dogs and worshiping Lord Kala Bhairava is the ideal thing to do on this day.Known as “Kala Bhairava Jayanthi,” Krishna Paksha Ashtami falls during the month of Margashirsha (Nov – Dec) and is regarded as extremely auspicious.
What are the rituals of Ashtami?
The rituals of ashtami are listed below.
- Wake up early and take a bath: On this day, worshippers take a holy bath as soon as they wake up.
- On a wooden plank, devotees set an idol of Lord Shiva or Lord Kaal Bhairav.
- Fasting (Vrat): Devotees often fast from sunrise to sunset. Some may consume fruits and milk, while others observe a complete fast.
- Puja and Aarti: Special prayers and aarti are performed at temples and homes. Devotees offer flowers, fruits, and sweets to the deity.
- Chanting and Meditation: Reciting mantras and meditating on the goddess’s form are common practices to seek her blessings.
- Kanya Puja: On some Ashtamis, especially during Navratri, young girls (representing the goddess) are worshiped and offered food and gifts.
- Charitable Deeds: Shukla Ashtami observances are fundamentally based on compassion and charity. Devotees give to the less fortunate, providing food for the hungry, giving to the poor, and bringing happiness and goodwill to the neighborhood.
- Temple Visits: In order to obtain the divine grace and blessings of Lord Krishna, Durga, or other deities on Shukla Ashtami, a large number of devotees travel to revered temples.
Difference between Shukla & Krishna Paksha Ashtami:
Shukla Paksha Ashtami and Krishna Paksha Ashtami are significant days in the Hindu lunar calendar, each occurring during different phases of the moon. Understanding their differences provides insight into their unique spiritual and cultural significance.
Shukla Paksha Ashtami occurs during the waxing phase of the moon, which is the period from the New Moon (Amavasya) to the Full Moon (Purnima). The energy during Shukla Paksha is considered auspicious for starting new ventures, making important decisions, and engaging in activities that require a positive and forward-moving energy.
In contrast, Krishna Paksha Ashtami occurs during the waning phase of the moon, from the Full Moon (Purnima) to the New Moon (Amavasya). The key difference between these two Ashtamis lies in their underlying energies and the types of activities they support.
Shukla Paksha Ashtami is a time for outward growth and new beginnings, while Krishna Paksha Ashtami is a period for inward reflection and spiritual cleansing.
