Jīvitaputrikā Vrata (Jitiyā Vrata) 2024

Jīvitaputrikā Vrata (also known as Jitiyā Vrata or Jitiyā) is a rigorous fast observed by mothers for the long life and well-being of their children, falling on Bhādrapada Kṛṣṇa Aṣṭamī (Amānta), the same day named Āśvina Kṛṣṇa Aṣṭamī under the Pūrṇimānta convention.

The vrata is associated with the legend of Jīmūtavāhana, a Gandharva prince who offered his own body to Garuḍa in place of a young Nāga about to be devoured, winning a boon that no Nāga would be harmed again. Mothers observe the vrata in his memory, praying for their children's protection and long life. The observance traditionally spans three days: Nahāy Khāy, the main nirjala (waterless) fast on Aṣṭamī, and Pāraṇā the following day.