Budh Ashtami is observed when the Shukla Paksha Ashtami Tithi or eighth day during the waxing phase of moon in a Hindu lunar calendar falls on Wednesday or Budhwar. In 2026, there are no Budhashtami dates
The prayers and puja on the day is dedicated to Goddess Parvati and Shiva. The prayers are performed for redemption of sins.
It is said in the Brahmanda Purana that the performance of the ritual helps in removing sins performed in previous births too.
In some regions people who observe the vrat only take eight handfuls of food on the day.