Vat Savitri Puja holds immense significance in Hindu culture, especially for married women who observe it diligently. Let’s explore the significance of this ritual, its date for the year 2024, and the traditional customs associated with it.
When is Vat Savitri Puja 2024 and What Are Its Traditions?
Vat Savitri Puja is an auspicious observance dedicated to the well-being and longevity of husbands, observed by married women across India. According to the Hindu lunar calendar, this puja falls on the Krishna Paksha (waning phase of the moon) full moon day (Amavasya) of the Jyestha month. In 2024, Vat Savitri Puja will be celebrated on June 6, while Vat Savitri Purnima will occur on June 21.
The tradition of Vat Savitri Puja varies slightly in different regions. In northern states, it is known as Vat Purnima Vrat and is observed 15 days after the Jyestha Amavasya. This discrepancy in observance dates adds to the cultural diversity and richness of India, with married women from various regions honoring the tradition in their unique ways.
Vat Savitri Puja 2024: Key Dates and Auspicious Timings
The auspicious timings for performing Vat Savitri Puja in 2024 are detailed in the Hindu Panchang:
| Tithi | Date | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Amavasya begins | June 5, 2024 | 7:54 PM |
| Amavasya ends | June 6, 2024 | 6:07 PM |
The most favorable time for conducting the puja rituals falls between 11:52 AM to 12:40 PM on June 6.
The History and Significance of Vat Savitri Puja
Vat Savitri Puja is deeply rooted in Hindu mythology, particularly the story of Savitri and Satyavan. According to the legend, Savitri, a devoted wife, undertook severe penance under a Banyan tree to save her husband Satyavan from the clutches of death. Her unwavering devotion and determination impressed Lord Yama, the god of death, who eventually granted Satyavan’s life back. This timeless tale symbolizes the essence of Vat Savitri Vrat, where married women seek divine blessings for the longevity and well-being of their husbands.
The observance of Vat Savitri Puja involves worshiping the sacred Banyan tree, which is believed to be inhabited by the trinity of Hindu gods—Lord Vishnu, Brahma, and Shiva. By performing the puja under this revered tree, women invoke the blessings of these deities to safeguard their husbands’ lives from untimely demise. Additionally, the Banyan tree symbolizes traits of knowledge and longevity.
Rituals and Practices of Vat Savitri Puja
For first-time observers of the Vat Savitri fast, here’s a step-by-step guide to conducting the rituals:
- Preparation: Begin by taking a purifying bath on the auspicious day and adorning yourself in vibrant attire reminiscent of a bride.
- Setup: Create an auspicious ambiance by decorating the worship area with rangoli patterns and placing an image or idol of Savitri and Satyavan beneath a Banyan tree.
- Puja Rituals: Offer water and raw milk to the roots of the Banyan tree while invoking the blessings of Goddess Savitri, Lord Yama, and Goddess Gauri. Apply kumkum, akshat, soaked gram, and sweets to the tree and light a diya.
- Raksha Sutra Ceremony: Perform the Raksha Sutra ritual by encircling the Banyan tree seven or eleven times with a sacred thread or cotton thread while reciting mantras.
- Story Recitation: Conclude the puja by reciting or listening to the timeless tale of Savitri and Satyavan, embodying the essence of marital devotion and sacrifice.
- Blessing Sharing: Share the auspicious blessings of the puja by offering fruits and essential items to seven or eleven married women, symbolizing the unity and solidarity among married couples.
This sacred observance not only strengthens the marital bond but also ushers in happiness, prosperity, and the divine blessing of offspring into the lives of devotees.
For further updates, visit the TrendIndian homepage.
