Why we celebrate
Bhishma Ashtami commemorates the passing of Bhishma Pitamah of the Mahabharata, with rites on the banks of the Ganga.
Mahabharata (Bhishma Parva)
Festival Profile
Bhishma Ashtami
Commemoration of Bhishma Pitamah of the Mahabharata, with Ganga rites.
Bhishma Ashtami commemorates the passing of Bhishma Pitamah of the Mahabharata, with rites on the banks of the Ganga.
When
Bhishma Ashtami falls on the eighth day (Ashtami) of the bright fortnight of Magha (January-February).
Since when it is followed
The Bhishma death belongs to the Dwapara Yuga; the tarpana rite has been observed for centuries.
Mahabharata tradition
Who celebrates / for whom
Celebrated by Hindus, especially at Gaya and on the Ganga, with shraddha for Bhishma.
Origin
The origin is the Mahabharata account of Bhishma's death, which he chose during Uttarayana, and the rite of tarpana on this day.
Mahabharata (Dwapara Yuga)
Key deities
Bhishma Pitamah and the ancestors (pitrs).
How to celebrate
Take a holy dip, perform tarpana and shraddha on the Ganga, and offer water to Bhishma.
Rituals & offerings
Tarpana, shraddha, and the offering of water and pindas.
Key facts
Bhishma chose to die during Uttarayana, the auspicious northern course of the Sun.
Mahabharata