Aasha Dashami, observed on the Dashami tithi of Shukla Paksha in the Ashadh month, is considered an important fasting day for married women. On this day, women observe a fast for a happy married life and for the fulfillment of their wishes. It is believed that worshipping the Aasha Devis, the goddesses representing the ten directions, brings happiness and prosperity into the household. Here is a look at why this vrat is observed, its exact date this year, and the puja rituals and rules associated with it.
Date and auspicious timing
According to the Panchang, the Ashadh Shukla Dashami tithi begins at 7:03 am on July 23 and continues until 9:12 am on July 24, 2026. Since Hindu fasts and festivals are traditionally observed based on the Udaya tithi, the Aasha Dashami vrat will be observed on July 24, a Friday.
Why this vrat is observed
The Aasha Dashami vrat is linked to the fulfillment of desires. Married women worship Goddess Parvati on this day and pray for a happy conjugal life. It is believed that worshipping Goddess Parvati along with the goddesses of the ten directions helps remove obstacles from one's life. There is also a belief that this fast is particularly beneficial for women whose husbands are living away from them, as it is said to increase the chances of reunion and marital happiness.
How the puja is performed
Women observing the fast are expected to wake up and bathe before sunrise. After that, the vrat sankalp, or vow, is taken with a pure body and mind. The puja area should be cleaned thoroughly, a red cloth spread over it, and an idol of Goddess Parvati placed on it. The puja is then performed with roli, sandalwood paste, flowers, incense and a lamp, and kheer is offered as bhog. Listening to or reading the vrat katha during the puja is considered necessary. While meditating on the Aasha Devis, devotees pray for the wellbeing of their family. After the puja, one is expected to donate according to one's means, and sattvik food is eaten once the rituals are complete.
- Bathe before sunrise
- Take the vrat vow with a pure mind
- Place an idol of Goddess Parvati on a red cloth
- Perform the puja with roli, sandalwood, flowers, incense, a lamp and kheer
- Listen to or read the vrat katha
- Meditate on the Aasha Devis and pray for wellbeing
- Donate according to one's capacity
- Eat sattvik food after the puja
What the rules of the vrat say
Tradition holds that the Aasha Dashami vrat should be observed for at least six months, or continuously for one to two years. It is considered best to begin the vrat from the Ashadh Shukla Paksha, though it can also be started from the Shukla Paksha of any month. Once the designated period is complete, an udyapan, or concluding ritual, is performed. During this time, married women are expected to keep a night vigil together. There is also a tradition of donating to Brahmins as well as to the needy and the poor.
