Why is VAT Savitri Puja considered incomplete without worshiping the banyan tree? What should you know here
Vat Savitri fast is celebrated on the day of Jayashatha Amavasya. This year, Amavasya starts at 12:11 pm on 26 May and ends on May 27 at 8:31 am. However, VAT Savitri Fast will be seen on 26th.According to celebrity astrologer Parduman Suri, The Vat Savitri fasting lies in the legend of Savitri, who begged Yamraj (God of death) to restore the life of her husband Satyavan after her untimely death. He went deeply with his unwavering devotion and determination, Yamraj gave his wish and brought Satyavan back to life. Since then, this festival has been observed by married women as a symbol of devotion, strength and marital loyalty.
Rituals and beliefs
On this holy day, according to astrologer Suri, women bathe early in the morning, beautify themselves with 16 Shringer (Sola Sharinger), and perform a special puja. A major ritual involves tying up around a banyan tree (Vata Vriksha), a seven threads of raw yarn or holy thread (Kalwa). For two primary reasons, it is considered necessary to worship the banyan tree for VAT Savitri fast:
- According to Hindu belief, the holy Trimurti – Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh (Shiva) – within the banyan tree.
- It was under a banyan tree that Savitri clashed with Yamraj and inspired her to restore her husband’s life.
Listening or narrating the story of Savitri and Satyavan is also an important tradition on this day. Married women inspect a strict Nirjala fast (a waterless fasting), which is believed to bring unwavering matrimonial bliss, longevity for husband and overall prosperity in the house. Additionally, devotees traditionally donate a water -filled earthen pot, which symbolizes life and nutrition. Lord Vishnu is also worshiped during the fast. The deity is considered to be highly auspicious by offering Puri (fried bread), gram (gram), and pua (a sweet dish) and later consuming it.
Things to do Vata Savitri
- Start worship by meditating on Lord Brahma and his union Savitri.
- Invite Goddess Savitri along with Satyavan and Lord Yama.
(The traditional gesture of the call is made by connecting both palms together and turning the thumb inward.) - Pray to Lord Vishnu for your husband’s long life, good life, and overall happiness.
- After completing the puja, donate fruits and other essential things to people with the needs.
- Finally, by worshiping the banyan tree and tying the holy thread.
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