Kindly don’t forget your traditions, rituals and religious festivals

Kindly don’t forget your traditions, rituals and religious festivals and recall what your parents and grandparents were doing on these days.

Today ( February 9,2022) is Bhishma Ashtami which is an important ritual observed by Kashmiri Pandits and other Hindus as part of their respect to legendary Bhishma. As per the incidents related to Mahabharata, Bhishma is regarded as the youngest son of King Shantanu and Ganga Devi.

People who would like to get rid of the putradosh (lack of a child) find this day as the most significant one for sure. Childless couples and newly married couples who look forward to having a son consider this day to be most auspicious to observe vrat (fast). Performing a Tarpan on this day will eventually consummate the fast kept by people in this regard. Perhaps, it is considered for offering peace to Bhishma Pitamaha’s soul. It is widely believed that by seeking the blessings of Bhishma on the day, it is possible to have a male child who is equally capable of being a pitamaha himself.

Bhishma Ashtami Snan is observed on the Magh Shukla Paksha Ashtami – eighth day of the Magh Month – as per traditional Hindu Lunar Calendar. In 2022 the Bhishma Ashtami Snan is on February 9,2022.

The Snan or bathing on holy rivers on the day is considered highly meritorious.

People also perform Bhishma Ashtami Tarpan (rituals dedicated to dead) on the day on river banks. It is dedicated to Bhishma and forefathers .