Ashoka Ashtami: Know History & Significance

Bhubaneswar: Ashok Ashtami or Ashokastami is observed on the eighth day during the Shukla Paksha of Chaitra month. It is mainly celebrated in Odisha and is a significant festivity at the famous Lingaraj Temple in Bhubaneswar. Devotees offer prayers to propitiate Goddess Shakti to win her favour and seek blessings.

History Of Ashokastami Festival

It is believed that it was during the time of Ashoka Ashtami when Lord Rama performed the rituals before attacking Ravana, emerging victorious eventually. This is the main significance of the Ashokastami Festival.

Ashoka Ashtami 2021: History And Significance

There are several legends associated with this festival. According to one of the legends, Lord Ram was unable to kill Ravana as he was being protected by Goddess Shakti. At that time, Bibhishan, Ravana’s younger brother advised Lord Rama to pray and seek help from the Goddess. Taking his advice, lord Rama performed puja at the Lingaraj Temple in Bhubaneswar for 7 days and prayed to Goddess Shakti and Lord Shiva.

On the eighth day, Goddess Shakti blessed him and guided him to kill the demon by using Brahmashtra. Rama killed Ravana with the help of the Goddess on this and hence the day is celebrated to mark the victory of Lord Rama and the victory of Good over evil. Hence the festival is quite significant is celebrated with joy and happiness.

Ashok Ashtami Fair is also organised at Unakoti Tirtha of Kailashahar Sub-Division, in Tripura. A special puja is performed to the Gods and Goddesses engraved on the hilly rocks.