“Bhishma Ashtami”, observed during Magha Shukla Ashtami (January-February), is an important day in the Hindu calendar that commemorates the death anniversary of Bhishma Pitamah, one of the most revered characters in the Mahabharata. His extraordinary life, sacrifices, wisdom, and commitment to duty have made him an iconic figure, and this day is a chance for devotees to remember his contributions and seek his blessings. The observance of “Bhishma Ashtami” is rich with rituals, symbolism, and spiritual significance.
This year, “Bhishma Ashtami” is on 5th of February 2025.
As per “Drik Panchang”, the “tithi” for “Bhishma Ashtami” in the year 2025 is as follows:
Bhishma, originally known as Devavrata, was born to King Shantanu of Hastinapura and the river goddess Ganga. He was an extraordinary warrior, scholar, and statesman. However, his life took a pivotal turn when he took the vow of celibacy and renounced his claim to the throne of Hastinapura to ensure his father’s marriage to Satyavati. This unparalleled sacrifice earned him the name Bhishma, meaning "the one who undertakes a severe vow," and he was blessed with the boon of choosing the moment of his death (Ichcha Mrityu).
During the Mahabharata war, Bhishma fought valiantly on the side of the Kauravas, despite his personal affection for the Pandavas. He was invincible in battle and resisted the Pandavas' advances for ten days. Ultimately, he was felled by Arjuna, assisted by Shikhandi, during the war. Bhishma lay on a bed of arrows for fifty-one days, offering counsel to both the Pandavas and the Kauravas, imparting invaluable wisdom on dharma, governance, and the nature of life and death.
As the day of his death approached, Bhishma chose the auspicious ‘Magha Shukla Ashtami’ for his departure, when the Sun began its northward journey (Uttarayana), a time believed to be spiritually favorable for attaining moksha. This decision, marking his final act of supreme devotion and sacrifice, is the essence of “Bhishma Ashtami.”
On “Bhishma Ashtami”, devotees engage in several rituals that not only honor Bhishma but also purify the soul and offer spiritual benefits. The day is marked by fasting, offering prayers, and performing Tarpan, a ritual to appease ancestors.
A significant observance on “Bhishma Ashtami” is the ‘Ekodishta Shradh.’ This ritual is performed to honor Bhishma Pitamah and is particularly important for those who have lost their father. While it is traditionally believed to be performed by those whose fathers have passed, people of some communities choose to perform it regardless of their father’s status, believing it brings blessings for the entire family.
One of the key practices on “Bhishma Ashtami” is ‘Tarpan’, which involves offering water, sesame seeds, and other sacred items in a river, typically the Ganges, to honor Bhishma and one’s ancestors. This ritual is believed to bring peace to the souls of the departed and purify the performer. The offering is made with the hope that the blessings of Bhishma Pitamah will lead to spiritual liberation and remove any obstacles from the devotee’s life.
Devotees observe a fast on “Bhishma Ashtami”, abstaining from food and water for the day. The fast is intended to purify the body and mind, fostering a connection to Bhishma’s spirit of sacrifice and devotion. Arghyam (a sacred offering of water) is offered in reverence, and the Bhishma Ashtami mantra "Evasunamavataraya Shantoratmajay Ch" is chanted to seek Bhishma’s blessings for righteousness and wisdom.
Taking a dip in the sacred waters of the Ganges on “Bhishma Ashtami” is an important practice. It is believed that the Ganges' water has purifying powers, washing away sins and granting spiritual merit. By doing so, devotees align themselves with the purity and sanctity that Bhishma himself embodied throughout his life.
Bhishma’s life is a powerful lesson in devotion, sacrifice, and dharma. His unwavering loyalty to his father and his selfless acts for the greater good make him an ideal model for righteousness. His death, on the auspicious day of Uttarayana, signifies the triumph of virtue and the fulfillment of one’s duties.
Bhishma Pitamah’s teachings continue to resonate in spiritual practice:
Bhishma’s life exemplifies the importance of dharma. He always placed his duties to the kingdom and his family above personal desires.
Bhishma’s vow of celibacy and renouncement of his claim to the throne was a supreme act of sacrifice for the happiness of his father and the well-being of the kingdom.
Even in the face of immense pain on the battlefield, Bhishma did not lose his composure. His calmness and wisdom in times of hardship are qualities to be admired and emulated.
Bhishma taught that peace is achieved through forgiveness and letting go of anger. Holding grudges only leads to negativity and discord.
Bhishma’s life illustrates the importance of not becoming overly attached to worldly possessions and relationships, as they are transient.
From a spiritual standpoint, “Bhishma Ashtami” serves as a reminder of the soul's eternal nature and the importance of detachment from material life. Bhishma’s conscious choice to die at an auspicious time represents the soul’s freedom from the cycle of birth and death. It is a day to reflect on one’s life, reaffirm one's commitment to righteous living, and let go of attachments that bind the soul to the physical world.
The fast and rituals performed on “Bhishma Ashtami” are symbolic of one's desire to purify the self, overcome past karmic debts, and progress towards spiritual liberation. By observing “Bhishma Ashtami”, devotees align themselves with the virtues of Bhishma and seek divine blessings for wisdom, long life, and peace.
Bhishma Ashtami holds special significance for couples wishing to overcome ‘putra dosha.’ On this day, childless couples and newlyweds observe a strict fast, believing that the blessings of Bhishma Pitamah will grant them a son with his admirable qualities.
“Bhishma Ashtami” is more than just a day of remembrance for Bhishma Pitamah; it is a day to reflect on the deeper spiritual lessons embedded in his life. Through his commitment to dharma, his sacrifices, and his wisdom, Bhishma Pitamah exemplifies the highest ideals of righteousness and devotion. As we observe Bhishma Ashtami, we are reminded to live a life of integrity, loyalty, and detachment, always striving for spiritual growth and the well-being of others.
May the blessings of Bhishma Pitamah guide us towards a life of virtue, wisdom, and inner peace.
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