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Bhishma Ashtami — Bhishma Pitamah's Departure Day

Bhishma Ashtami: honoring Bhishma Pitamah's departure

By Sanatan Hindu2 min readUpdated 9 August 2026Audio available
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Bhishma Ashtami — Bhishma Pitamah's Departure Day

Introduction

Bhishma Ashtami is a significant day in the Hindu calendar, commemorating the departure of Bhishma Pitamah, a revered figure in the Mahabharata. It is observed on the eighth day of the Magha month, usually in January or February. Bhishma Pitamah, also known as Bhishma, was a powerful and wise warrior who played a crucial role in the epic battle of Kurukshetra. His departure is considered a significant event, as it marked the end of an era and the beginning of a new cycle. On Bhishma Ashtami, devotees pay homage to Bhishma Pitamah, seeking his blessings and guidance. The day is also associated with the planet Saturn, or Shani, and is considered auspicious for performing rituals and seeking forgiveness. Bhishma Ashtami is a day for reflection, self-introspection, and spiritual growth, as it reminds us of the impermanence of life and the importance of living a virtuous and meaningful life.

Significance

Bhishma Ashtami is significant because it honors the life and legacy of Bhishma Pitamah, a symbol of wisdom, courage, and devotion. The day is also associated with the planet Saturn, which is believed to have a profound impact on human life. By observing Bhishma Ashtami, devotees can seek forgiveness for their past mistakes, reflect on their actions, and strive for self-improvement. The day is also considered auspicious for performing rituals and seeking blessings from Bhishma Pitamah, who is revered as a guardian deity and a symbol of spiritual guidance.

When to Celebrate

Bhishma Ashtami is observed on the eighth day of the Magha month, usually in January or February. The best time to perform the rituals is during the morning, when the sun is rising, or in the evening, when the sun is setting. It is essential to consult a Hindu calendar or a learned pandit to determine the exact date and time of Bhishma Ashtami.

Find your exact auspicious time Check the shubh muhurat and choghadiya for your city and date.

What You'll Need

Image or idol of Bhishma Pitamah
Incense sticks
Camphor
Flowers
Fruits
Sesame seeds
Water
Milk
Honey

How to Prepare

  1. 1Clean and purify the worship area
  2. 2Set up the image or idol of Bhishma Pitamah
  3. 3Light the incense sticks and camphor
  4. 4Offer flowers, fruits, and sesame seeds
  5. 5Prepare a mixture of water, milk, and honey for the abhishekam ritual

How to Celebrate

  1. 1Begin the ritual by invoking the blessings of Bhishma Pitamah
  2. 2Offer flowers, fruits, and sesame seeds to the image or idol
  3. 3Perform the abhishekam ritual by pouring the mixture of water, milk, and honey over the image or idol
  4. 4Recite the Bhishma Ashtami mantra and perform the aarti
  5. 5Seek forgiveness for past mistakes and reflect on your actions
  6. 6Offer gratitude and thanks to Bhishma Pitamah for his guidance and blessings

Mantras

Bhishma Ashtami Mantra

श्री भीष्म अष्टमी मंत्रः

Shri Bhishma Ashtami Mantrah

Meaning: Salutations to Bhishma Pitamah on his departure day

Bhishma Stuti

भीष्मस्तुति

Bhishma Stuti

Meaning: Hymn of praise to Bhishma Pitamah

Observance Rules

  • Observe a fast or a partial fast on Bhishma Ashtami
  • Avoid non-vegetarian food and intoxicating substances
  • Engage in spiritual activities, such as meditation, prayer, and self-reflection

Do's

  • Seek the blessings of Bhishma Pitamah
  • Perform the abhishekam ritual and offer flowers, fruits, and sesame seeds
  • Recite the Bhishma Ashtami mantra and perform the aarti

Don'ts

  • Avoid arguments and conflicts on Bhishma Ashtami
  • Refrain from engaging in worldly activities and material pursuits
  • Do not neglect the rituals and traditions associated with Bhishma Ashtami

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Ignoring the significance of Bhishma Ashtami and its associated rituals
  • Neglecting to seek the blessings of Bhishma Pitamah
  • Failing to observe the vrat rules and regulations

Regional Variations

  • In some regions, Bhishma Ashtami is observed with great fanfare and festivities
  • In other regions, the day is marked with simplicity and humility
  • Different traditions and customs are associated with Bhishma Ashtami in various parts of India

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of Bhishma Ashtami?
Bhishma Ashtami commemorates the departure of Bhishma Pitamah and is associated with the planet Saturn. It is a day for reflection, self-introspection, and spiritual growth.
How do I observe Bhishma Ashtami?
Observe a fast or a partial fast, perform the abhishekam ritual, recite the Bhishma Ashtami mantra, and seek the blessings of Bhishma Pitamah.

References & Traditional Notes

  • The Mahabharata
  • The Bhagavata Purana
  • The Vishnu Purana

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