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Jamai Shashthi: the son-in-law's day

On one day of Joishtho the son-in-law returns to his in-laws' home for a big meal. Here is where the custom comes from.

Last checked: 2 Nov 2026 · 1 sources

When it is held

On the sixth tithi (Shashthi) of the bright fortnight of the month of Joishtho, one day a year. It is observed in Bangladesh and India. (Source: Wikipedia, Jamai Sasthi)

Puja and hospitality

The mother-in-law performs Shashthi Puja to please the goddess and seek blessings for her daughters and sons-in-law. The son-in-law is invited to the bride's family home and entertained; the day is called a family reunion day, when the whole family eats together. (Source: Wikipedia, Jamai Sasthi)

The son-in-law is served a sumptuous feast of vegetarian and non-vegetarian food prepared by the mother-in-law. (Source: Wikipedia, Jamai Sasthi)

Shashthi and the cat

Shashthi's vehicle is the cat. In the tale, a greedy wife steals food and blames the cat; in anger Shashthi takes her child's life. She later appears as an old woman, reminds her of the fault, and revives the child after the wife apologises. (Source: Wikipedia, Jamai Sasthi)

The social reason

Girls were often married far away, and long travel was costly and tiring. The custom let the couple visit for a few days so the wider family could meet them. The puja is also linked to a wish for healthy children. (Source: Wikipedia, Jamai Sasthi)

💡 The date depends on the Shashthi tithi; check the panjika and send the invitation early.

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