Banada Ashtami 2025: Know Date, Time, Rituals and Significance of Shakambhari Jayanti

Banada Ashtami 2025: Know Date, Time, Rituals and Significance of Shakambhari Jayanti

Banada Ashtami is a significant day in Shakambhari Navratri, a sacred festival dedicated to Goddess Shakambhari, an incarnation of Devi Bhagwati. This unique Navratri starts on Paush Shukla Ashtami (the eighth day of the waxing moon in the month of Paush) and concludes on Paush Purnima (the full moon). In 2025, Shakambhari Navratri begins on Tuesday, January 7, and ends on Monday, January 13, with Banada Ashtami being observed on Tuesday, January 7.

Banada Ashtami 2025: Date and Time

Banada Ashtami marks the beginning of Shakambhari Navratri, a festival that differs from most other Navratris, which typically commence on Shukla Pratipada (the first day of the waxing moon). Instead, Shakambhari Navratri begins on Ashtami and lasts for eight days, concluding on Paush Purnima, which is also celebrated as Shakambhari Purnima or Shakambhari Jayanti.

On this day, devotees worship Goddess Shakambhari, who is revered as the Goddess of vegetables, fruits, and greenery. It is believed that Devi Bhagwati took the form of Shakambhari to alleviate a severe famine and food crisis on Earth. She is often depicted surrounded by lush greenery, fruits, and vegetables, symbolising abundance and nourishment.

Banada Ashtami: Significance

Banada Ashtami is particularly significant in regions like Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, Maharashtra, and parts of Tamil Nadu. In Karnataka, Goddess Shakambhari is worshipped as Banashankari Devi, and Banada Ashtami holds special importance during this Navratri.

The festival celebrates the nurturing and protective qualities of Devi Shakambhari, who is believed to ensure sustenance and prosperity. Devotees seek her blessings for overcoming hardships, ensuring a bountiful harvest, and leading a healthy life.

Banada Ashtami: Rituals

• Devotional Worship: On Banada Ashtami, devotees perform special pujas to honour Goddess Shakambhari. Temples dedicated to her are beautifully decorated with flowers, fruits, and vegetables.
• Fasting: Many devotees observe fasts throughout Shakambhari Navratri, especially on Banada Ashtami and Shakambhari Purnima. These fasts are often accompanied by prayers and rituals.
• Cultural Festivities: Communities organise processions, cultural events, and devotional singing to celebrate the divine presence of Goddess Shakambhari.
• Offerings: Fruits, vegetables, and grains are offered to the Goddess as symbols of gratitude for her protection and abundance.

The festival concludes on Shakambhari Purnima, which is celebrated as Shakambhari Jayanti. According to Hindu mythology, this day marks the birth anniversary of Goddess Shakambhari. Devotees gather in large numbers at temples to offer prayers and participate in special rituals, seeking her blessings for prosperity and well-being.

If you’re seeking spiritual fulfillment and a deeper connection with nature, Banada Ashtami 2025 is the perfect time to join the celebrations and experience the vibrant cultural heritage surrounding Goddess Shakambhari.

Also Read | Gupt Navratri January 2025: Shakambhari Navratri Begins on Banada Ashtami - Check Date, Time, Puja Vidhi, and Significance