The eighth tithi of each lunar fortnight, observed as a fast day honouring Durga, Krishna, and Shiva.
Ashtami is the 8th tithi of each lunar fortnight, occurring twice a month in both the waxing and waning phases. The waning-phase (Krishna Paksha) Ashtami hosts some of the most important festivals: Krishna Jayanthi (Lord Krishna's birthday) and Durga Ashtami during Navaratri.
Krishna Jayanthi falls on the Krishna Paksha Ashtami of the Tamil month of Aavani — devotees fast until midnight, the hour of Krishna's birth, then celebrate with songs, dramas and butter offerings. Durga Ashtami, the eighth day of Navaratri in Purattasi, honours the fierce warrior aspect of the Goddess.
Ashtami is also significant in the Chandrashtamam system, which tracks the Moon's position relative to one's birth star. In some traditions, Ashtami is considered a powerful day for Devi (Goddess) worship and for rituals seeking protection.
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Frequently asked questions
What is Ashtami?
Ashtami is the 8th tithi (lunar day) of each lunar fortnight. There are two per month, one in the waxing phase (Shukla Ashtami) and one in the waning phase (Krishna Ashtami). It is associated with Goddess Durga and Goddess Saraswati.
How many Ashtami days are there in a year?
There are about 24 Ashtami days per year, two per lunar month. All dates are listed on this page.
Is Janmashtami the same as Ashtami?
Janmashtami (the birth of Lord Krishna) falls on the Krishna Ashtami of the Tamil month Aavani (Aug–Sep). The monthly Ashtami observances are different, they occur every lunar fortnight throughout the year.
What is observed on Ashtami?
Ashtami is considered auspicious for Durga, Saraswati and Bhadrakali worship. Many devotees fast and visit goddess temples on Ashtami days, especially the Shukla Ashtami in Navaratri.