Ashok Ashtami, or Ashokastami, is a unique ritual associated with Goddess Shakti and Lord Shiva and is observed on the eighth day during the Shukla Paksha (waxing phase of moon) of Chaitra month. Ashok Ashtami 2025 date is April 5. The day is of great significance in Odisha and in some Southern states of India . It is also held during Navratri in Ashwin month, in 2025 it is on September 30.
It is believed that Lord Rama performed Ashoka Ashtami rituals before beginning the final assault on Ravana.
Ashokastami is an important observance at the famous Lingaraj Temple in Bhubaneswar in Orissa.
Story of Ashok Ashtami
Legend has it that Lord Ram was unable to annihilate Ravana as he was being protected by Goddess Shakti. On the advice from the wise Vibhishana, Lord Ram performed rituals dedicated to Goddess Shakti and Lord Shiva for seven days and he was blessed on the eighth day. With the blessings of Goddess Shakti, Lord Ram was able to vanquish Ravana.
It is believed that Lord Rama took out a procession of Goddess Shakti and Shiva on the eighth day.
The term Ashoka means the one that is devoid of sorrow and Ashtami means the eighth day. Ashokastami is the day when Lord Ram’s sorrow was relieved by Goddess Shakti and Lord Shiva.