Ashok Vrat is observed in Vaishakh month as per traditional Hindu lunar calendar followed in North India. It is known as Triratri Vrat because it is observed for 3 days. Ashok Triratri Vrat 2024 date is from May 21 to May 23. Ashoka tree is worshiped on the occasion.
The importance of the Vrat is mentioned in the Narada Purana.
After early morning bath, puja is performed of Ashoka Tree. Devotees perform circumambulation of the tree. Some devotees perform the vrat for three days – Vaishakh Shukla Paksha Trayodashi, Chaturdashi and Purnima.
Fasting or vrat is kept from sunrise to sunset.
In the evening puja is again performed before the Ashoka tree. Normal aarti is performed. Fruits are distributed as Prasad.
The vrat is to be performed for 12 years.
It is believed that those performing the ritual will be blessed with peace and prosperity.
In Hinduism, Ashoka is a sacred tree and is associated with Kamdev. Its flowers are used in making arrows of Kamadeva.
Vrat and rituals associated with Ashoka tree is also observed in Chaitra and Ashwin month. The vrat is Chaitra month is known as Ashoka Sashti and ritual is known as Ashoka Ashtami.
In the Ramayana, Mata Sita was kidnapped and imprisoned in an Ashoka tree garden.