Rukmini Ashtami
Rukmini Ashtami
December-January; eighth day of waning half of Hindu month of Pausa
Vaishnavite Hindus believe that Rukmini, Lord Krishna's primary wife and queen, was born on this day. According to the Harivansha Purana, she fell in love with Krishna but was already betrothed to Shishupala, king of Chedi. As she was going to the temple on her wedding day, Krishna carried her off in his chariot. They were pursued by Shishupala and Rukmin, her brother, but Krishna defeated them and eventually married her.
The fast known as Rukmini Ashtami is observed by women, both married and unmarried. Rukmini, Krishna, and Pradyumna, their son, are worshipped. A Brahman priest is also fed and given dan-dakshina, or charitable gifts, on this day. Many middle-class Hindus believe that observance of this fast ensures conjugal happiness and prosperity, and that it will help them find good husbands for unmarried girls.
The fast known as Rukmini Ashtami is observed by women, both married and unmarried. Rukmini, Krishna, and Pradyumna, their son, are worshipped. A Brahman priest is also fed and given dan-dakshina, or charitable gifts, on this day. Many middle-class Hindus believe that observance of this fast ensures conjugal happiness and prosperity, and that it will help them find good husbands for unmarried girls.
SOURCES:
RelHolCal-2004, p. 180
RelHolCal-2004, p. 180
Holidays, Festivals, and Celebrations of the World Dictionary, Fourth Edition. © 2010 by Omnigraphics, Inc.