Rukmini Ashtami fast: Holy festival of good luck, prosperity and marital happiness
Rukmini Ashtami fast: Rukmini Ashtami fast is a sacred and religious festival in Hinduism. It commemorates the birth anniversary of Goddess Rukmini, considered the consort of Lord Krishna and an incarnation of Goddess Lakshmi. This fast is especially significant for devotees who wish for happiness, peace, prosperity, and marital stability in their lives. This festival is celebrated with traditional devotion in many Indian states, including Maharashtra, Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh, and regions of Central India.
Religious Basis of Rukmini Ashtami
The Ashtami date is considered highly auspicious in Hinduism. It is believed that Lord Krishna was born on this date and that Goddess Rukmini also appeared on this day. Rukmini is considered the princess of Vidarbha, who chose Lord Krishna as her life partner. Their marriage is considered an example of love, courage, and righteousness. Therefore, this fast is not only religious but also a symbol of cultural and family values.
Date of Rukmini Ashtami in 2025
In 2025, the holy festival of Rukmini Ashtami will be celebrated on December 12th. On this day, married women observe a fast for the long life, good health, and well-being of their husbands. Unmarried women observe this fast with full rituals to obtain a worthy and upbringing life partner.
A Fast Symbolizing Good Luck and Prosperity
Goddess Rukmini is considered an incarnation of Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, prosperity, and stability. It is believed that devotees who observe the Rukmini Ashtami fast with a sincere heart are relieved of financial troubles and experience happiness and prosperity in their homes. This fast brings stability and positive energy to life.
Wishing for Unbroken Good Luck
This fast is considered especially important for women. Married women observe it to ensure unbroken good fortune, the longevity of their husbands, and a harmonious married life. It is believed that with the blessings of Goddess Rukmini, obstacles in married life are removed and mutual love is strengthened.
Belief in Finding a Desired Life Partner
The Rukmini Ashtami fast is considered extremely fruitful for unmarried women. Religious belief holds that just as Goddess Rukmini was blessed with an ideal life partner in Lord Krishna, women observing this fast also receive a worthy, cultured, and loving life partner.
Belief in Child Bliss
Couples who desire childlessness also observe this fast with devotion. It is believed that with the blessings of Lord Krishna and Rukmini’s son, Pradyumna, who is considered an incarnation of Kamadeva, child-related problems are resolved and happiness arrives in the family.
Rukmini Ashtami Vrat Puja Rituals
This fast begins with a morning bath. Afterward, wearing clean clothes, worship is offered to Goddess Rukmini and Lord Krishna. Fruits, flowers, sweets, and traditional offerings are offered during the puja. Fasting is observed throughout the day, remembering the Lord, singing hymns, and chanting mantras. In the evening, listening to the story and performing aarti hold special significance.
A Festival Associated with Devotion and Faith
Rukmini Ashtami is not just a fast but a festival of devotion, love, and dedication. On this day, special events are held in temples, where devotees collectively worship. Remembering the exploits of Lord Krishna and Goddess Rukmini inspires one to follow the path of righteousness and dignity in life.
Key Beliefs Associated with Rukmini Ashtami
Worshiping during the auspicious time on this day is considered extremely fruitful. Not only women, but men can also observe this fast. It is essential to observe restraint, purity, and devotion throughout the day. Worshiping Pradyumna is also considered particularly auspicious, bringing positive love and attraction.
Social and Cultural Significance
The festival of Rukmini Ashtami reflects family values, respect for women, and the dignity of married life in society. This festival teaches us that true love, faith, and devotion make life happy. That is why this fast is still observed with devotion and faith.