Vat Savitri Vrat is a significant Indian festival observed by married Hindu women, primarily in North India. It is celebrated on the Amavasya (new moon) day in the Hindu month of Jyeshtha, which typically falls in May or June. In 2023, Vat Savitri Vrat is expected to be observed on a date determined by the Hindu lunar calendar, that is on 19 May 2023.
This festival is named after Savitri, a legendary figure from Hindu mythology known for her devotion and determination to save her husband's life. On this day, married women observe a day-long fast and perform various rituals to seek the well-being and longevity of their husbands.
Women wake up early in the morning, take a ritual bath, and dress up in traditional attire. They then visit a nearby sacred banyan tree (vat vriksha) or a tree that symbolizes the divine tree mentioned in the legend of Savitri. The tree is worshipped with offerings of water, flowers, incense, and vermillion. Women tie threads around the tree, symbolizing their bond with their husbands.
After the tree worship, women listen to the Vat Savitri Katha, the narrative of Savitri's devotion and her successful efforts to bring her husband back to life. This story inspires women to be devoted and determined in their married lives.
Throughout the day, women observe a strict fast, abstaining from food and water. They engage in prayers and meditation, seeking the blessings of Savitri and Lord Shiva. In the evening, they break their fast after sighting the moon, offering prayers, and seeking blessings for their husbands' well-being.
Vat Savitri Vrat is considered a sacred and auspicious observance for married women. It is believed to bring harmony, happiness, and prosperity to the marital relationship. This festival showcases the importance of love, devotion, and commitment between spouses and celebrates the strength of women in upholding their family's welfare.
Worship material of Vat Savitri fast: Idol of Savitri and Satyavan, raw cotton, red colored kalawa, bamboo fan, banyan fruit, incense, earthen lamp, paan , betel nut, coconut, vermilion, Akshat, fruit, flower, batasa, roli, 1.25 meter cloth, perfume, Suhaag items, home-made pudiya, soaked gram, sweets, home-made dishes, urn filled with water, peanuts, Makhana.
Chithirai chariot festival's eleventh day is marked by a colourful parade