Mothers observe the Ahoi Ashtami fast for their children’s wellbeing four days after the strenuous Karwa Chauth vrat. Similar to the Karwa Chauth fast, the Ahoi Ashtami fast is observed without food or drink from sunrise to sunset, and it is broken upon stargazing. After a moon sighting, the fast is broken in some families. The festival is widely celebrated in North India with great zeal and enthusiasm, falling about eight days before Diwali.
The modern Ahoi Ashtami vrat is kept for both son and daughter, although in the past it was kept for the longevity and well-being of sons. On this day, worshippers honour Goddess Ahoi Ashtami Bhagwati, who is the reincarnation of Goddess Parvati, and receive her blessings.
Here’s a list of food that should avoid during Ahoi Ashtami:
1. Non-vegetarian foods: If you enjoy eating chicken and mutton but aren’t a vegetarian, you need to restrain your cravings on Ashtami.
2. Alcohol: It is not allowed at all.
3. Onions and Garlic: On any holy day, according to Hinduism, one should abstain from eating onions and garlic.