Astrology News: Mothers observe the Jitiya Vrat every year, praying for the happiness, prosperity, good health, and longevity of their children. In Hinduism, this is considered a rigorous fast, as women abstain from both food and water for an entire day and night. Spanning three days, the festival begins with ‘Nahay-Khay’ and concludes with ‘Paran’ (breaking the fast) following the ‘Nirjala’ (waterless) fast. In 2026, the Jitiya Vrat will be observed on October 3rd. Let us look at the dates and auspicious timings for the rituals associated with these three days.
‘Nahay-Khay’ on October 2nd
The Jitiya festival begins on Friday, October 2, 2026. On this day, the tradition of ‘Nahay-Khay’ is observed. Women observing the fast take a bath in the morning, perform prayers, and then partake in a meal. According to religious tradition, the meal consumed on ‘Nahay-Khay’ is sattvic (pure and simple) and traditional. It is customary to eat Jhingni (ridge gourd), Noni greens, and Madua (finger millet) roti on this occasion.
‘Nirjala’ Fast to be Observed on October 3rd
The main Jitiya fast will be observed on Saturday, October 3, 2026. According to the Panchang (Hindu almanac), the Ashtami Tithi (eighth lunar day) begins at 7:59 AM on October 3rd and continues until 5:51 AM on October 4th. Based on the Udaya Tithi rule (observance based on the sunrise), the Jitiya Vrat will be observed on October 3rd. On this day, mothers pray for their children’s longevity, excellent health, and happiness and prosperity in life.
The Tradition of ‘Othgan’ Before Brahma Muhurta
Following ‘Nahay-Khay’, there is a tradition of performing ‘Othgan’ before Brahma Muhurta (the auspicious pre-dawn period) on the morning of October 3rd. Afterward, the women take a vow to observe the Nirjala (waterless) fast. Listening to the legend of King Jimutavahan is considered particularly significant during the Jitiya Vrat. In many places, there is also a tradition of worshipping the kite and the female jackal.
Auspicious Timings for Jitiya Puja
According to Acharya Madan Mohan, the Brahma Muhurat on October 3 will last from 4:53 AM to 5:41 AM. The Pratah Sandhya (morning twilight) period will be from 5:17 AM to 6:29 AM. Meanwhile, the Abhijit Muhurat will be from 12:04 PM to 12:51 PM. Prayers and religious rituals can be performed during these auspicious times.
Breaking the Fast (Paran) on October 4
The Paran (breaking of the fast) for Jitiya will take place after sunrise on Sunday, October 4, 2026. According to the Acharya, observing women can break their fast after 6:15 AM. It is a religious belief that observing the Jitiya fast with devotion and in accordance with prescribed rituals fulfills wishes regarding the well-being, health, and longevity of one’s children.
Correct Dates for Jitiya Vrat: Rules for Nahay-Khay and Auspicious Timings
