About Jitiya

Jitiya Festival – A Mother’s Prayer for Her Children’s Long Life

Jitiya (also known as Jivitputrika Vrat or Jiutiya) is a traditional Hindu festival celebrated with immense devotion by mothers in the Indian states of Bihar, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh (Purvanchal region) and in parts of Nepal. This vrat is observed to seek blessings for the long life, prosperity, and well-being of children.

📅 When is Jitiya Celebrated?

The Jitiya festival falls in the Krishna Paksha (waning phase of the moon) of the month of Ashwin (September–October). The main day of fasting is observed on the Ashtami Tithi.

• Day 1 – Nahai-Khai (नहाय-खाय): Women take a holy bath and eat only once a day after preparing simple vegetarian food.

• Day 2 – Jitiya Vrat / Kharna (उपवास): A rigorous fast without food and water (nirjala) is observed.

• Day 3 – Paran (पारण): The vrat is broken the next day with rituals after sunrise, once the puja is complete.

🙏 Rituals of Jitiya Vrat

The Jitiya vrat is marked by discipline, devotion, and sacrifice. Key rituals include:

• Morning Bath (Snan): Women wake up early, take a bath in rivers, ponds, or sacred water sources.

• Puja: They worship Lord Jimutavahana (जीमूतवाहन), known for his sacrifice to save a child from Garuda (vulture).

• Offerings: Fruits, flowers, and sacred food items are offered during the puja.

• Songs & Katha: Women gather to sing traditional Jitiya songs and narrate the Jivitputrika Katha (story of Jimutavahana).

• Strict Fasting: The second day is observed with absolute devotion, without eating or drinking.

🌸 Significance of Jitiya

Jitiya is considered one of the toughest fasts, but it symbolizes the unconditional love of a mother for her children.

• Brings health, wealth, and longevity to children.

• Protects them from misfortune and evil influences.

• Strengthens the bond between mother and child.

In many regions, Jitiya is given as much importance as Karva Chauth in North India, but it has a deeper cultural and folk connection in eastern India and Nepal.

🎶 Cultural Importance

Jitiya is not just a fast, but a community celebration.

• Women gather in groups, apply traditional alta (red dye) on feet, and sing folk songs.

• The songs are often in Maithili, Bhojpuri, and Magahi dialects.

• Stories of Jimutavahana and mothers’ devotion are passed down generations through oral traditions.

• In Mithila and Terai regions of Nepal, it is called Jiutiya and celebrated with equal enthusiasm.

The Legend of Jitiya

The vrat is rooted in the story of Jimutavahana, a noble prince who sacrificed his own life to save the son of a poor woman from being eaten by Garuda (the celestial vulture). Impressed by his selflessness, Garuda spared the child and blessed humanity.

• This legend emphasizes sacrifice, protection, and motherly love, which are central to Jitiya.

🌼 Conclusion

The Jitiya festival beautifully portrays the essence of motherhood, sacrifice, and devotion. It is not only a religious observance but also a cultural celebration where women come together, pray for their children, and strengthen social bonds.
For mothers, this vrat is a way of expressing unconditional love, and for society, it is a reminder of the selfless strength of motherhood.

Jitiya is one of the most significant festivals celebrated in 1, bringing together communities in celebration of their rich cultural heritage and religious traditions.

History & Significance

The origins of Jitiya can be traced back to ancient times, deeply rooted in Indian mythology, cultural practices, and religious beliefs. This festival holds immense spiritual and social significance, symbolizing the values, traditions, and unity of the communities that celebrate it.

Over the centuries, Jitiya has evolved while maintaining its core essence, continuing to inspire devotion and bring joy to millions of people across India and beyond.

How It Is Celebrated

The celebrations of Jitiya are marked by various traditional rituals, prayers, decorations, and community gatherings. Families prepare special dishes, adorn their homes with lights and decorations, and participate in religious ceremonies.

Community events, cultural programs, music, dance, and processions are common features of the celebrations. The festival atmosphere is filled with joy, devotion, and a sense of togetherness that brings people closer to their roots and to each other.

Where It Happens

Jitiya is celebrated in 1, with each region adding its unique local traditions and customs to the celebrations.

Major temples, cultural centers, and community spaces in 1 become focal points of celebration, attracting devotees and visitors from near and far.

Best Time to Visit Jitiya

Jitiya 2026 is celebrated from 14th Sep to 15th Sep.

The best time to experience Jitiya is during the main celebration days, when the festivities are at their peak. If you're planning to visit the region during this time, arrive a day or two early to witness the preparations and immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere.

Travel Tips for Jitiya

If you're planning to visit during Jitiya, here are some helpful tips:

• Plan Ahead: Book accommodations well in advance as hotels fill up quickly during festival season.
• Respect Traditions: Dress modestly and follow local customs when visiting religious sites or participating in celebrations.
• Arrive Early: Popular celebration venues can get crowded, so arrive early to get a good viewing spot.
• Stay Connected: Keep your mobile phone charged and have backup transportation options as services may be limited during peak celebration times.
• Try Local Food: Festival celebrations often feature special traditional dishes - don't miss the opportunity to try authentic local cuisine.