Significance
Vat Savitri Vrat is observed by married women on the Amavasya or Purnima of Jyeshtha for the long life and well-being of their husbands. It commemorates the extraordinary devotion of Savitri, who followed Yama (the god of death) when he came to take her husband Satyavan's soul and through her wit, wisdom, and relentless devotion convinced Yama to restore his life. The Vat (Banyan) tree, worshipped on this day, represents the eternal, undying nature of the marital bond and the Cosmic Tree of Life.
Preparation
Rituals & Vidhi
Morning Sankalpa
Bathe early and wear the traditional red or yellow sari. Take a Sankalpa to observe the fast for the longevity of your husband, invoking Savitri as the ideal of devotion.
Banyan Tree Puja
Go to a Banyan tree. Apply kumkum and haldi to the roots. Offer flowers, fruit, and sweets at the base.
Mantra: Avaidhavyam Cha Saubhagyam Dehi Tvam Mama Suvrata
Thread Circumambulation
Wind the red or white thread around the trunk of the Banyan tree while doing circumambulation -- traditionally 7, 11, or 108 times. With each round, pray for your husband's health.
Savitri Katha
Listen to or read the story of Savitri and Satyavan from the Mahabharata (Vana Parva). Contemplate the qualities of determination, intelligence, and devotion.
Fasting
Women observe a full fast on this day, consuming no food or water (Nirjala) in many regions, or just water and fruits. The fast is broken only in the evening after the puja and after seeing the stars.
Family Guidance
Even daughters and daughters-in-law can participate in the Banyan tree puja. Husbands can show support by observing a simple fruit fast in solidarity. Tell daughters the story of Savitri to inspire respect for commitment and wisdom.