Jara Jivantika Puja – Jara Jeevantika Vrata in Shravan Month

Jara Jivantika Puja is mainly observed on Fridays in the Shravan Month in Maharashtra and Gujarat. In 2013, Jara Jivantika Puja dates are August 9,  August 16, August 23 and August 30. Jara Jivantika Vrata is dedicated to Goddess Ma Jivantika – Hindu goddess who is the protector of children. She is also believed in helping couples to get children. Goddess Jivantika is worshipped on all Fridays in Shravan month. The mantra that is chanted on the day is "Om Shri Jivantikayai Namah."

The significance of Ma Jivantika and Jara Jivantika Vrat is mentioned in the Skanda Purana.

Married women observe the Jara Jivantika Puja for the welfare of their children and to get healthy babies.

Women who observe the Vrat wear only red clothes on the day and avoid social functions. After the morning bath, she performs an Arati to Goddess Jivantika. After the puja, some rice is held in the hand and the devotee asks the Goddess to protect her children and then she sprinkles the rice on the head of the children.

Women avoid cooked food on the day. Usually, they only consume fruits and water. Some people do not sleep during night but this is skipped by many people.