Bhishma Ashtami 2026: Date, Puja Vidhi, Vrat Rules & Its Deep Spiritual Meaning

Is Bhishma Ashtami important for ancestors and dharma? Explore the 2026 date, puja rituals, fasting rules, and spiritual meaning.

On January 26th, 2026, devoted Hindus will celebrate Bhishma Ashtami, an important event on the 8th day of Shukla Paksha (the waxing half of the moon) in the Magha month, as a means to honor Bhishma Pitamah, who served as a symbol of unwavering commitment and discipline to dharma in the Mahabharata. Bhishma Ashtami is observed by individuals by fasting, performing Tarpana and Shraddha, and spending time in personal reflection or meditation. The observances of the day are derived from the teachings in Vedic texts that impart the importance of fulfilling one's duties to God, paying respects to one's ancestors (Pitru), and following the path of righteousness (Dharma).

Bhishma Ashtami 2026 Date and Time

• Bhishma Ashtami: Monday, 26 January 2026

• Madhyahna Time: 11:44 AM to 01:58 PM

• Duration: 02 Hours 15 Minutes

• Ashtami Tithi Begins: 11:10 PM on 25 January 2026

• Ashtami Tithi Ends: 09:17 PM on 26 January 2026

The festival of Bhishma Ashtami is celebrated on the eighth day of the waxing phase of the moon in the month of Magha (January – February), which is derived from the Hindu scriptures.

What Is Bhishma Ashtami?

Bhishma Ashtami is commemorated on the Shukla Paksha Ashtami of Magha month, the period in Hinduism when Bhishma departed from the Earth's realm to merge into the light of the Divine. As stated in the Shastra's, "This is the day for performing Tarpana, Shraddha, fasting, giving donations to charity and so forth; especially for those seeking blessings from their ancestors (Pitru), and also relief from a problem known as Pitru Dosha."

Bhishma, being blessed with Iccha Mrityu (the divine boon to choose the time of one's death), passed away only after waiting on a bed of arrows until the Sun entered the time period known as Uttarayana, which is considered auspicious by the Shastra for gaining liberation from rebirth.

“उत्तरायणं पुण्यकालः”

Uttarayana is a sacred and liberating time.

Who Was Bhishma Pitamah?

Bhishma Pitamah was originally named Devavrata. He was the son of King Shantanu and the goddess Ganga and was well known for taking the oath that he would remain celibate throughout his life as an act of service to the Kuru dynasty. He was given the title of Bhishma, which translates as "one with great vows."

With his understanding of dharma and guidance from the greatest sages of his time, Bhishma was the ethical foundation of Mahabharata. His teachings provide Yudhishthira with guidance and support for his role as a warrior king.

A famous Sanskrit verse illustrates his devotion to dharma:

“धर्मे च अर्थे च कामे च मोक्षे च भरतर्षभ।

यदिहास्ति तदन्यत्र यन्नेहास्ति न तत्क्वचित्॥” — Mahabharata

Whatever is found here (in the Mahabharata) regarding dharma, artha, kama, and moksha exists elsewhere; what is not found here exists nowhere else.

Spiritual Importance of Bhishma Ashtami

The ultimate message of Bhishma Ashtami is beyond the recognition of the day, but is rather how we choose to live our lives. Bhishma's steadfastness to dharma through all trials and tribulations reflects what is at the root of Sanatangyan.

In Vedic thought, the Uttarayana (the northern path) represents enlightenment, wisdom and liberation. By passing away on this occasion, Bhishma demonstrates the importance of living intentionally as well as of dying intentionally, which are two important principles of Hindu philosophy.

This observance is also linked with:

• Removal of Pitru Dosha

• Blessings for progeny

• Peace in family lineage

• Strengthening moral discipline

  
  

Bhishma Ashtami Puja Vidhi (Step-by-Step)

1. Ekodishta Shraddha

A special sraddha ceremony is performed for Bhishma Pitamah which is particularly helpful for those who seek blessings from their ancestors.

2. Bhishma Ashtami Snan

A holy bath in the Ganga or any sacred river, offering til and rice, symbolises purification of body and mind.

3. Tarpan Ritual

While chanting scriptures to honor Bhishma and our ancestors, we offer Bhishma water mixed with black sesame seeds, kush grass and flowers.

4. Vrat (Fasting)

The devotees who observe Bhishma Ashtami fast for the entire day and break their fast after completing the puja and offering Arghya.

5. Arghya to Bhishma

The arghya given during midday is said to provide purifying effects, protection and spiritual merit.

Bhishma Ashtami Mantra

“वसूनामवताराय शंतनोरात्मजाय च।

अर्घ्यं ददामि भीष्माय आ बालब्रह्मचारिणे॥”

Salutations to Bhishma Pitamah, incarnation of the Vasus and son of King Shantanu. This offering is made to the eternal celibate for blessings of discipline and righteousness.

Teachings from Bhishma Pitamah

As he was dying, Bhishma imparted his wisdom for generations to come. His words resonate with the practicing soul of Sanatangyan.

“धर्मेण हीनाः पशुभिः समानाः”

Those without dharma are equal to beasts.

Key lessons include:

• Truth is the highest dharma

• Duty requires sacrifice

• Strength must protect righteousness

• Detachment leads to liberation

These teachings are considered eternal principles to, by many gurus and sadhus.

Fasting Rules: What to Do & Avoid

What to Do

• Wake during Brahma Muhurat and take a sacred bath

• Worship Lord Krishna with devotion

• Consume only fruits, milk, or vrat food

• Chant the Mahamantra:

• “Hare Krishna Hare Krishna, Krishna Krishna Hare Hare…”

• Listen to Bhishma Katha from the Mahabharata

What to Avoid

• Alcohol, intoxicants, and outside food

• Excessive screen time or distractions

• Arguments, anger, or negative thoughts

The date of Bhishma Ashtami 2026 reminds us of the real source of our strength and fortitude, which comes from following the path of dharma through acts of sacrifice and reverence for those who have passed (our ancestors). Those who observe Bhishma Ashtami by observing rituals such as Pradakshina, tarpan and bhakti (mindfulness) will achieve better alignment with the teachings contained in Sanatangyan through the support of Bhishma Pitamah, enabling them to move closer to their true selves, experience peace and ultimately follow the righteous path.