Mothers across Bihar would observe Jivitputrika Vrat (also known as Jitiya) on September 27 (tomorrow). In this festival they would fast for 24 hours without even taking Water. The Vrata is observed by women for the wellness of their children.
Women observing Jivitputrika Vrat or Jitiya
It is actually a three day long Hindu festival celebrated from the seventh to the ninth day of Krishna Paksha in Ashwin month of Hindu Calendar which usually falls in September.
The first day, the day before Jivitputrika is known as Nahai-khai. On that day mothers take food only after having their bath. On Jivitputrika day, a strict fast is observed by Women without water.This is called Khur Jitiya (khur is dry hay). On the third day, the fast ends with Paaran(taking the first food of the day).
There are several legends associated with the Festival. It is believed that once an eagle and a female fox lived in a jungle were friends. Once both of them saw some ladies performing the pooja & fasting, and wished to observe it themselves too. Both of them observed the fast but the fox became unconscious because of hunger and had food quietly. On the other hand, the eagle observed the fast with full dedication and completed it. As a result, all the kids born to the fox used to die a few days after birth and the eagle’s offsprings were blessed with long life.
Another legend says that there was a King of Gandarvas called Jimutavahana. He once saved Snakes from being killed in the hands of Garuda after being approached by mother of a Snake. To honor him, women observe this Ritual and offer prayers to Jimutavahana.