Jivitputrika fast is observed for the long life of children, their good health and their happiness. This year it will be celebrated on 25 september 2024, Wednesday . This fast is primarily observed by mothers. It is a very effective and auspicious fast.
This fast is also known by the name ‘Jiutiya’ or ‘Jitiya’. This fast is mainly observed in Bihar and some parts of eastern Uttar Pradesh. Water is not consumed during this fast.
Jivitputrika Fast Puja Vidhi
Jivitputrika fast is observed on the Vyapini Ashtami of Pradosh Kaal. One should take a bath early in the morning and then resolve to observe the fast. The devotee should clean the place of worship with cow dung. In ancient times, the place was cleaned using this technique only. But in today’s time, turmeric and Gangajal are also used.
Along with this, a small pond is also made at the place of worship. A stem of the Pakad tree should be kept near the pond. The idol of Jimutavahana made of grass should be placed in water or in earthen vessels. This idol should be adorned with yellow or red clothes. After this, this idol should be worshipped using Dhoop, Deep, Akshat, flowers, etc. Prasad should also be prepared.
A female kite and female jackal idol should be prepared by using mud or cow dung. Tilak should be applied to both the idols. After this, the red Sindoor should be presented to the idols and they should also be worshipped. While observing the fast, the Jivitputrika Katha should also be read.
There are different ideologies on this Vrat. Some believe that it is celebrated for one day and some believe that it is celebrated for three days. On the first day, women perform Puja and eat Sarputiya Sabji or Nuni Saag. The second day is called Khar or Khur Jitiya. On this day, women observe Nirjala fast. And Paran is performed on the third and last day. Food is consumed only after Paran. Women wear Jiutiya in a red thread as a necklace.
Jivitputrika Vrat Katha
The results of this fast increase manifold when one reads the Jivitputrika Vrat Katha along with observation of the fast. The story is as follows –
Jimutavahana was a Gandharva prince, he was well behaved and always thought about the welfare of others. Everybody was happy with his work and loved him for this. Jimutvahan’s father too was a renowned king. He decided to pass the throne to his son as he had ruled for a very long time and was growing old.
Jimutavahana was not prepared to be a King. Despite this, the King renounces everything and goes to live in the forests. Jimutvahana rules for some time but eventually he too passes on the throne to his brother. He follows his father’s footsteps and joins him in the forest. He starts serving his father.
One fine day, Jimutvahana sees an old lady crying. On inquiring, the lady tells him that she was born in Naag Vansh and has only one child. According to an old tradition, they have to present one snake, in other words, her child to the Garuda King. Today was the turn of her son.
Jimutavahana assures her that he will protect her son. He presents himself as the Naag son of the old lady Garuda Raj. To do so he lies down covered in a piece of red cloth. Garuda Raj assumes Jimutvahana body to be the body of Naag Putra. He clasps Jimutavahana in his claws and flies towards the mountain. Later on, Garuda Raj discovers that the body was not of the Naag Putra.
Garud Raj asks Jimutavahana to introduce himself. Jimutvahana explains everything to Garuda Raj. After listening to the bravery and altruism of Jimutavahana, Garuda Raj asks him to ask for a boon. Jimutavahana asks him to not take Naag Bali. This impresses Garuda Raj. He blesses Jimutvahana with a long life and frees all the snakes. In this way, the selfless spirit and courage of Jimutavahana saves the Naag community. Since that day, this fast is observed for the good health and long life of children.
Jivitputrika Vrat Mahatmya
Jivitputrika Puja is celebrated during the Pradosh Kaal of Ashtami Tithi of Krishna Paksha in Ashwin month. Women with children observe this fast for the happy and healthy life of their children.
Lord Shiva narrates the importance of this fast to Goddess Parvati. He says if women with children and also women who desire to have a child should observe this fast, worship Jimutavahana and read the Katha, then their descendants will never perish.
After worshipping Jimutavahana, meals are offered to the Brahmins. Dakshina is also given to the Brahmins seeking blessings for children. Next day Vrat Paran is observed. This fast blesses the devotees with sons and their healthy life.