Significance of Syahu Mala: Every year, on the eighth day of the month of Kartik, women observe the Ahoi Ashtami fast for the long life, happiness, and prosperity of their children. Like Karva Chauth, this fast is observed without water for the entire day. This day is observed not only by mothers but also by women who wish to have children.

This year, Ahoi Ashtami falls on October 13, 2025. Fasting women observe a day-long fast and break their fast in the evening by offering prayers to the stars. There is also a tradition of wearing a Syahu Mala on this day. But have you ever wondered about the significance of this garland and why it is worn? If not, let's understand its importance.

What is a Syahu Mala?

Syahu Mala holds special significance in the Ahoi Ashtami fast. This garland is typically made of silver, consisting of small silver beads strung on a red thread with a locket. Women who observe the Ahoi Vrat, wishing for the long life of their children, wear this garland specifically. During the puja, the garland is worshipped with roli, rice grains, milk, and rice. It is believed that wearing this garland until Diwali is auspicious and ensures a long and happy life for their children. Before wearing this garland during the Ahoi puja, women perform a ritualistic worship of it to reap its full benefits. This tradition has been passed down for generations and is observed with devotion.

Women observe a Nirjala fast (without water or food) on Ahoi Ashtami.

For the puja, place a picture of Ahoi Mata in the home temple or on the wall.

Fill an earthen pot (or kalash) with water and place it near the picture.

Offer the Syahu Mala to the picture of Ahoi Mata.
It is considered auspicious to have your child sit nearby during the puja.
First, apply a tilak to Ahoi Mata, then apply a tilak to the Syahu Mala locket.
After this, wear the garland around your neck.
After fasting for the entire day, offer arghya to the stars in the evening and then break the fast.
Wear the Syahu Mala until Diwali, then store it safely.
Use the water kept in the pitcher to bathe your child on Diwali day.
It is believed that this puja blesses your child with long life and good health.

When is Ahoi Ashtami 2025?

According to the Drik Panchang, the Ahoi Ashtami fast is observed every year on the Ashtami Tithi of the Krishna Paksha (dark fortnight) of the month of Kartik. This fast is especially observed by women who wish for their children's long life, happiness and prosperity. This year, the Ashtami date will begin at 12:24 PM on October 13, 2025, and will last until 11:09 AM on October 14. Since the date of sunrise is considered auspicious, this time the Ahoi Ashtami fast will be observed on Monday, October 13, 2025.

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