Vat Savitri Vrat Katha: A Tale of Love, Devotion, and Determination
Introduction
Vat Savitri Vrat is a significant festival observed by married Hindu women, especially in the states of Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Odisha. Celebrated on the Amavasya (new moon day) of the Jyeshtha month, this vrat (fast) is dedicated to Goddess Savitri, who is worshipped for the long life and well-being of one's husband.
The Legend of Savitri and Satyavan
The story behind Vat Savitri Vrat is rooted in the legend of Savitri and Satyavan:
Savitri, a devoted wife and the daughter of King Ashwapati, chose Satyavan—a prince living in exile in the forest—as her husband, despite being warned by sages that he was destined to die within a year.
Unshaken in her resolve, Savitri married Satyavan and lived a simple life in the forest. As the fateful day approached, she undertook a rigorous fast and prayer for his life.
On the predicted day of Satyavan’s death, Yama, the god of death, arrived to take his soul. Savitri followed Yama, engaging in deep conversations about dharma and loyalty. Pleased with her wisdom and devotion, Yama offered her three boons—excluding Satyavan’s life. Savitri cleverly asked for her in-laws' eyesight, her father-in-law’s kingdom, and a hundred sons from Satyavan. Yama, bound by his promise, had to return Satyavan’s life.
Thus, Savitri's unwavering love and intelligence brought her husband back to life, and she became a symbol of pativrata dharma (the righteousness of a devoted wife).
Rituals of Vat Savitri Vrat
1. Fasting: Married women observe a fast from sunrise to moonrise.
2. Worshipping the Banyan Tree (Vat Vriksha): Women tie sacred threads around the banyan tree and pray for their husband's long life, symbolizing the strong roots of love and fidelity.
3. Offering Prayers: They offer fruits, flowers, and water to the tree and listen to the Vat Savitri Vrat Katha.
4. Traditional Attire: Women dress in traditional sarees, adorn themselves with bangles, sindoor, and jewelry.
Significance
The banyan tree is considered sacred as it symbolizes immortality and endurance. The vrat reinforces values of love, loyalty, and family integrity. It empowers women with the example of Savitri’s strength and spiritual resolve.