Vat Savitri Vrat is especially significant for married women. It is a festival dedicated to praying for the long life, health, and prosperity of their husbands and family. This year, Vat Savitri Vrat falls on 26th May (Monday). On this day, married women observe a fast and worship the Banyan tree (Vat Vriksha) for the well-being and longevity of their husbands as well as for overall happiness and prosperity. This year, the Vrat coincides with the auspicious Amrit Yoga, which is considered highly beneficial.
If you plan to observe the Vat Savitri Vrat, here is how to perform the puja at home and the auspicious timing.
Vat Savitri Vrat Puja Muhurat:
Vat Savitri Vrat is observed every year on the Amavasya (new moon) day of the month of Jyeshtha. This year, the Amavasya tithi begins on 26th May at 12:11 PM and ends on 27th May at 8:31 AM. According to Acharya Anjani Kumar Thakur, the best time for performing the Vat Savitri puja is between 11:01 AM and 3:30 PM.
The Story of Devi Savitri and Satyavan:
The Vat Savitri Vrat is linked with the legendary tale of Devi Savitri and her husband Satyavan. Through her devotion, austerity, and dedication to her husband, Savitri was able to persuade Yamaraj (the god of death) to grant her husband life again. Since then, this fast has become a symbol of faith and devotion for married women.
Complete Puja Procedure for Vat Savitri Vrat:
On the day of the fast, women should wake up before sunrise, take a bath, and wear clean clothes. Clean the place where the puja will be performed. Spread a red cloth on a low wooden platform (chauki). If possible, bring a small twig of the Banyan tree. If a twig or branch is not available, a picture or idol of the Banyan tree can be used.
Place the idols or pictures of Devi Savitri and Satyavan. Offer roli (vermilion), sandalwood paste, unbroken rice (akshat), seasonal fruits, flowers, and sweets to the idols. Light incense sticks and a lamp (deepak). Tie raw cotton thread around the Banyan twig or the picture. Then, perform seven circumambulations (parikrama) around the Banyan twig or image.
After this, recite the Vat Savitri Vrat story (katha). Conclude the puja by performing aarti. Seek blessings from the elders of the house and distribute prasad to everyone.
After observing the fast the entire day, break the fast (paran) in the evening. In some regions, women consume only fruits and grains during the fast, while in others, they may eat some cooked food as well.