Mothers observe the Jitiya Vrat every year, praying for the happiness, prosperity, good health, and longevity of their children. In Hinduism, this is considered a rigorous fast, as women abstain from both food and water for an entire day and night. Spanning three days, the festival begins with 'Nahay-Khay' and concludes with 'Paran' (breaking the fast) following the 'Nirjala' (waterless) fast. In 2026, the Jitiya Vrat will be observed on October 3rd. Let us look at the dates and auspicious timings for the rituals associated with these three days.
**Nahay-Khay on October 2nd**
The Jitiya festival begins on Friday, October 2, 2026. On this day, the tradition of 'Nahay-Khay' is observed. Women observing the fast bathe in the morning, offer prayers, and then partake in a meal. According to religious tradition, a *sattvic* (pure/wholesome) and traditional meal is consumed on the day of Nahay-Khay. It is customary to eat *Jhingni* (ridge gourd), *Noni* greens, and *Madua* (finger millet) roti on this occasion.
**Nirjala Vrat to be observed on October 3rd**
The main Jitiya fast will be observed on Saturday, October 3, 2026. According to the *Panchang* (Hindu almanac), the *Ashtami Tithi* (eighth lunar day) begins at 7:59 AM on October 3rd and continues until 5:51 AM on the following day, October 4th. Based on the *Udaya Tithi* rule (observance based on the sunrise tithi), the Jitiya Vrat will be observed on October 3rd. On this day, mothers pray for their children's longevity, excellent health, and happiness and prosperity in life.
**Tradition of 'Othgan' before Brahma Muhurta**
Following 'Nahay-Khay', there is a tradition of performing 'Othgan' before the *Brahma Muhurta* (auspicious pre-dawn period) on the morning of October 3rd. Afterward, the women take a vow to observe the *Nirjala* (waterless) fast. Listening to the legend of King Jimutavahan is considered particularly significant during the Jitiya Vrat. In many places, there is also a tradition of worshipping the kite and the female jackal.
**Auspicious Timings for Jitiya Puja**
According to Acharya Madan Mohan, on October 3, the *Brahma Muhurat* will last from 4:53 AM to 5:41 AM. The *Prataha Sandhya* (morning twilight) period will be from 5:17 AM to 6:29 AM. Meanwhile, the *Abhijit Muhurat* will be from 12:04 PM to 12:51 PM. Worship and religious rituals can be performed during these auspicious times.
**'Paran' (Breaking of the Fast) on October 4**
The *Paran* (breaking) of the Jitiya fast will take place after sunrise on Sunday, October 4, 2026. According to the Acharya, observing women can break their fast after 6:15 AM. It is a religious belief that observing the Jitiya fast with devotion and adherence to rituals fulfills wishes regarding the well-being, health, and longevity of one's children.
PC Social Media
