जीवित पुत्रिका व्रत
Jivit Putrika Vrat - Sacred Fast for Sons
A sacred fasting ritual observed by mothers for the long life, health, and prosperity of their sons
Other Names
जीवित्पुत्रिका व्रत
Traditional Sanskrit name
Jitiya Vrat
Popular regional name
Putrada Vrat
Alternative traditional name
Where It's Celebrated
Primary Regions
Special Places
Ganga Ghats, Bihar
Collective celebrations by river banks
Village Ponds
Traditional community gathering places
Home Courtyards
Family-based intimate celebrations
Origin & Scriptural Connections
Mahabharata Connection
After the Kurukshetra war, Ashwatthama sought revenge by hurling the Brahmastra at Arjuna's unborn grandson. Lord Krishna intervened to save the fetus, reviving the child who was aptly named “Jivitputrika” (living son).
That child, Parikshit, survived to continue the Pandava lineage. Ever since, mothers have observed this sacred fast annually for the long life of their children.
King Jimutvahana Legend
King Jimutvahana, a compassionate ruler, offered himself to Garuda to save a Naga mother’s only son. Moved by his sacrifice, Garuda spared him and vowed to stop taking serpent lives.
This legend celebrates ultimate sacrifice and divine reward, inspiring mothers to fast for their children’s wellbeing with unwavering devotion.
What is Jivit Putrika Vrat?
Jivit Putrika Vrat is a sacred fasting ritual observed by mothers for the long life, health, and prosperity of their sons. This ancient tradition reflects the profound maternal love and devotion in Hindu culture.
Etymology
In Sanskrit, “Jīvit-putrikā” literally means “living son” - from jīvit (alive) and putra (son). The name embodies a mother’s prayer for her child’s continued life.
Sacred Purpose
The vrat seeks divine blessings for children’s protection from all dangers and ensures their prosperity and happiness throughout life.
Nirjala Fast - Ultimate Devotion
This is one of the most challenging vrats, involving complete abstinence from food and water for 24+ hours. Yet mothers undertake it with joy, believing their sacrifice creates a spiritual shield around their children.
Three-Day Ritual Observance
1Day 1: Nahai-Khai (Bath and Eat)
Sacred Purification
Mothers perform early morning ritual bath in river or pond, don clean clothes. Only after purification do they consume simple vegetarian meals cooked with ghee and rock salt.
Special Pre-Fast Meal
“Ongthān” or “Datkhat” is prepared - often including fish and millet bread (ragi chapatti). Mothers ensure their children eat until full before the strict fast begins at midnight.
2Day 2: Khur Jitiya (Sacred Fasting Day)
Dawn Rituals
Arghya (water offering) to Surya at sunrise, seeking blessings for vitality and long life of children.
Jimutvahana Worship
Clay idol of Jimutvahana installed, with offerings of akshat, flowers, fruits, and sweets.
Chil-Siyar Figures
Small clay eagle and jackal figures created, adorned with sindoor, representing the folk legend.
⚠️ Nirjala Fast - Ultimate Devotion
Complete abstinence from food and water for entire day and night. Mothers avoid comfort of beds, often sleeping on floor as penance while maintaining spiritual focus through community prayer and storytelling.
3Day 3: Parana (Breaking the Fast)
Dawn Conclusion
Ritual bath and prayers to Surya as Ashtami tithi ends. Only after praying for children’s wellbeing do mothers ceremonially break their fast with prasad and water.
Sacred Feast
Traditional foods like noni saag (wild purslane greens) and maruwa roti (millet bread) with rice and curry. Family feast in atmosphere of gratitude and celebration.
Regional Variations
Bihar & Eastern UP
- •Complete 3-day observance with Nahai-Khai format
- •Clay eagle and jackal worship specific to region
- •Strong community gatherings at river ghats
Jharkhand
- •Extended 8-day celebration called “Jitia”
- •Sacred fig branch planting ritual in courtyards
- •Community Jhumar dances through the night
Nepal (Madhesi)
- •Called “Jitiya Parva” in Terai region
- •Extended fasts up to 36 hours (Khar Jitiya)
- •Tharu women perform special Jhamta dances
Odisha
- •Known as “Pua Jiuntia” in Western Odisha
- •Worship deity called “Dutibahana”
- •Similar Aswina Krishna Ashtami timing
Modern Adaptations
- •Urban families perform puja at home vs. river ghats
- •Digital panchang for precise timing calculations
- •Social media sharing of Jivitputrika greetings
- •Inclusive prayers for daughters alongside sons
Discover Sacred Stories & Legends
Immerse yourself in the rich collection of Jivit Putrika stories, from ancient legends of King Jimutvahana to the Mahabharata connections and folk tales of the eagle and jackal.
Jimutvahana Legend
The compassionate king’s ultimate sacrifice
Eagle & Jackal Tale
Moral story of devotion and consequences
Mahabharata Connection
Krishna’s divine intervention for Parikshit
Sacred Facts & Traditions
Universal Maternal Love
Observed by mothers for sons, but childless women also participate seeking motherhood blessings. Modern practice extends prayers to all children.
Most Challenging Vrat
Nirjala fast lasting 24-36 hours with no food or water. Considered one of the most difficult vrats, yet undertaken with joy and devotion.
Lunar Calendar
Observed on Krishna Paksha Ashtami of Ashwin month. Date varies each year based on precise lunar calculations and regional observations.
Community Bonding
Strong community participation in rural areas. Women gather at rivers and temples, sharing stories and supporting each other through the fast.
Sacred Thread
Red-yellow “Jiutiya” thread worn around neck or wrist during vrat. Received during puja as sign of completed vow and protection talisman.
Cultural Heritage
Appears in 7th-century Sanskrit play “Nagananda” by Emperor Harsha. Rich folklore tradition passed down through generations.
Jivit Putrika Wishes & Blessings
“May this sacred vrat bring divine blessings to all mothers and their children. May every son be blessed with long life and prosperity.”
Traditional Blessing
“पुत्रस्य दीर्घायुः भवतु। मातृभक्तिः सदैव वर्धतु।”
Sanskrit Prayer