Banada Ashtami 2025 UK | Date, Time, Rituals, Significance, and Celebrations in London, UK

Banada Ashtami 2025 will be observed on 7th January (Tuesday) in London. The Ashtami Tithi begins at 12:53 PM on 6th January and ends at 10:56 AM on 7th January. This marks the start of Shakambhari Navratri, which concludes on 13th January.

Introduction

Banada Ashtami marks the beginning of Shakambhari Navratri, a significant festival in Hinduism dedicated to Shakambhari Mata, the Goddess who symbolizes nature, crops, and sustenance. This year, Banada Ashtami falls on 7th January 2025 (Tuesday) in London, United Kingdom, making it an important day for devotees of the Goddess.

When is Banada Ashtami 2025 in the UK?

In 2025, Banada Ashtami will be observed on 7th January (Tuesday) in London. The Ashtami Tithi begins at 12:53 PM on 6th January 2025 and ends at 10:56 AM on 7th January 2025 (local time in London). This marks the beginning of Shakambhari Navratri, which spans eight days, culminating on Shakambhari Purnima, also known as Shakambhari Jayanti.

What is the Significance of Banada Ashtami?

Banada Ashtami is a day that holds great importance for Hindus, especially in regions like Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, Maharashtra, and parts of Tamil Nadu. On this day, devotees pay tribute to Shakambhari Mata, the Goddess of abundance, nature, and food. Shakambhari Mata is believed to have incarnated to bring relief during times of famine and severe food shortages. She is often depicted surrounded by an abundance of fruits, vegetables, and greens, symbolizing nature’s life-sustaining power.

The day is significant not only for worship but also for fasting, prayer, and reflection on the importance of nature’s bounty in sustaining human life. It is also a day to give thanks for the food we consume and to seek blessings for prosperity and nourishment in the coming year.

Celebrating Banada Ashtami in London

In London, Banada Ashtami is celebrated with devotion and reverence, especially by those who follow the traditions of Shakambhari Mata. The day is marked by pujas, fasting, and community gatherings in temples and Gurudwaras across the city. Devotees observe a day of prayer, seeking blessings for abundance, good health, and prosperity.

The celebrations typically start with a morning prayer and continue throughout the day with Arti and Kirtan (devotional singing). People gather at temples to offer prayers to Shakambhari Mata, seeking her protection from famine, natural calamities, and hardships. It’s a time to celebrate the power of nature and reflect on the importance of food security and prosperity.

In some temples, a special Shakambhari Mata puja is performed, where devotees make offerings of fresh vegetables, fruits, and greens, symbolizing the Goddess’s connection to nature. This puja is followed by community feasts, where vegetarian dishes are prepared, honoring the Goddess’s association with nourishing foods.

Why is Banada Ashtami Celebrated?

Banada Ashtami is celebrated to honor Shakambhari Mata, an incarnation of Devi Bhagwati. According to Hindu mythology, Shakambhari Mata incarnated to protect the world from famine by ensuring the earth’s fertility and abundance. Her blessings are believed to bring prosperity, prevent natural disasters, and ensure a bountiful harvest.

The festival also highlights the importance of vegetation and agriculture in sustaining life. Devotees believe that by honoring the Goddess, they can ensure the health and prosperity of their families and communities for the year ahead.