📅 Festival Details at a Glance
| Festival Name | Hala Shashthi |
|---|---|
| Date | 3 September 2026 |
| Day | Thursday |
| Hindu Month | Bhadrapada |
| Tithi | Krishna Shashthi |
| Deity | Lord Balarama |
| Observed By | Mothers & women |
| Purpose | Well-being of children |
📌 What is Hala Shashthi?
Hala Shashthi is an important Hindu observance primarily celebrated by mothers and married women for the long life, good health, and protection of their children. The festival holds deep cultural and spiritual significance, especially in North India, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and parts of Madhya Pradesh.
The word “Hala” means plough, which symbolizes agriculture, fertility, and nourishment. This vrat is closely associated with Lord Balarama, who is known as Haladhara (the bearer of the plough).
🌼 Religious & Spiritual Significance
Hala Shashthi represents:
- Motherly devotion and protection
- Gratitude towards nature and agriculture
- Respect for food, soil, and farming tools
- Blessings for child health and longevity
According to belief, observing this vrat with faith protects children from:
- Illness
- Negative energies
- Accidents and obstacles in life
🛕 Connection with Lord Balarama
Lord Balarama, the elder brother of Lord Krishna, is worshipped on this day. He symbolizes:
- Strength and discipline
- Agricultural prosperity
- Protection of family and community
In many households, plough (hala) or symbolic agricultural tools are worshipped instead of idols.
📜 Hala Shashthi Vrat Katha (Short Story)
As per traditional belief, once a mother unknowingly consumed food prepared using freshly ploughed grains, which was considered impure on that day. This led to suffering for her child. After realizing her mistake, she observed Hala Shashthi vrat with devotion, following all rules strictly. Pleased with her penance, divine forces blessed her child with health and long life.
This story emphasizes:
- Purity of food
- Awareness of rituals
- Power of mother’s devotion
🕯️ Puja Vidhi (Worship Method)
Morning Rituals:
- Wake up early and take a holy bath.
- Wear clean, preferably light-colored clothes.
- Clean the puja area.
Puja Steps:
- Place an image or symbol of Lord Balarama.
- Worship the plough (hala) if available.
- Offer flowers, incense, diya, and fruits.
- Recite prayers or vrat katha.
- Pray for children’s health and happiness.
Evening:
- Complete the vrat after sunset.
- Consume simple, sattvik food.
🍽️ Food Rules & Traditions
On Hala Shashthi:
- Grains are avoided, especially those grown using ploughed fields.
- Food made from milk, fruits, and vegetables is preferred.
- In many regions, curd-based items are consumed.
- Some women observe nirjala vrat (without water).
This practice reflects respect for agriculture and nature.
🌍 Regional Beliefs & Names
Hala Shashthi is also known as:
- Balram Jayanti
- Lalahi Chhath (in Bihar & UP)
- Hal Chhath
Each region follows slightly different customs, but the core belief remains the same.
📌 Benefits of Observing Hala Shashthi Vrat
Devotees believe that this vrat:
- Protects children from diseases
- Brings peace and harmony to the family
- Strengthens maternal bond
- Ensures prosperity and stability
❓ Short FAQ – Hala Shashthi
Q1. When is Hala Shashthi in 2026?
Hala Shashthi will be observed on 3 September 2026 (Thursday).
Q2. Who should observe Hala Shashthi vrat?
Mothers and married women observe this vrat for their children’s well-being.
Q3. Which deity is worshipped on Hala Shashthi?
Lord Balarama, also known as Haladhara.
Q4. Can unmarried women observe Hala Shashthi?
Yes, unmarried women may observe it to seek blessings for future family life.
Q5. Why are grains avoided on Hala Shashthi?
Grains represent freshly ploughed land, which is avoided to honor agricultural purity.
Panchang Official