Bhishma Ashtami

Festival celebrated on the eighth day
(ashtami) of the light, or waxing, half of
the lunar month called Magh
(January–February), marking the death
of Bhishma. Bhishma is an uncle to
both the Kauravas and the Pandavas,
warring factions in the Hindu epic
Mahabharata. He is well known for his
bravery, continence, and truthfulness.
He also has the power to choose the
time of his death. Although he is mortally wounded in the great Mahabharata
war, he remains alive until weeks later
(delivering discourses and advice to the
victorious Pandavas the entire time),
delaying his death until the sun has
resumed its northward course
(uttarayana). On this day parents give
offerings of food and water in
Bhishma’s name in the hope that their
sons may have his good qualities.