Bhishma Ashtami, or Bhismashtami, is observed on the eighth day of the Shukla Paksha (waxing phase of moon) of Magh Month (January – February) as per traditional Hindu calendar. Bhishma Ashtami 2025 date is February 5. The day is dedicated to Bhisma of Mahabharata, popularly known as Bhishma Pitamah or Gangaputra Bhishma. It is believed that his soul departed on this day.
Bhishma Pitamaha had got a boon from his father, Shantanu, that he will only die when he wishes. After the 18-day war in Mahabharat, it is believed that Bhishma chose the ashtami day on the Shukla Paksha of Magh month to leave his body and merge with the Supreme Soul.
This happened during the auspicious Uttarayan period, the daytime of Devas.
Bhishma Ashtami Snan
The Snan or bathing on holy rivers on the day is considered highly meritorious.
People also perform Bhishma Ashtami Tarpan (rituals dedicated to dead) on the day on river banks. It is dedicated to Bhishma and forefathers. The belief is that rituals performed on the day will reach quickly to the ancestors.
Bhishma Ashtami Snan is mainly held in parts of North India and Bengal .
A fast is observed by some communities on the day. In Performing Annadanam (food donation), feeding of animals, donation of clothes and study materials earn merits.
Please note that in some regions he is believed to have departed on Magh Dwadasi - Bhishma Dwadashi especially in South India. Those communities believe that Bhishma decided on Ashtami day to depart from the world on Dwadasi. Therefore the day is observed as Bhishma Deeksha day.