Vat Purnima, also known
as Jyeshtha Purnima or Vata Savitri Purnima, is
observed on the full moon day (Purnima) in Jyeshtha month (May–June).
This sacred vrat is dedicated to Goddess Gauri and Sati Savitri,
symbolizing the strength and devotion of married women.
According to Narad
Puran, Vat Savitri Vrat can be observed on both Jyeshtha
Amavasya (Vat Amavasya) and Jyeshtha Purnima. Skanda
Puran advocates for observing it on Purnima, while Nirnayamrit prefers Amavasya.
Rituals & Observance
- Three-Day Fasting (Trayodashi to
Purnima): Women fast for their
husband’s health and prosperity. Those unable to observe three
days opt for a single-day vrat on either Jyeshtha
Amavasya or Purnima.
- Sacred Bath & Adornments: Women
apply gingili (sesame) and amla paste, wear new
clothes, bangles, sindoor, and henna, symbolizing marital harmony.
- Worship of Banyan Tree & Goddess
Savitri: Women pour water at the
roots, tie red or yellow threads 108 times, and pray for
their husband’s longevity.
- Offering Prasad: Fruits
like banana, mango, jackfruit, lemon, along with wet
pulses and rice, are offered in devotion.
- Temple Puja & Recitation of
Savitri-Satyavan Story: Priests
narrate how Savitri saved Satyavan from Yamaraj, inspiring
women to uphold devotion.
- Breaking the Fast & Charity: On
the next day, women consume Prasad, prepare festive
delicacies, and donate food, clothes, and money to the
needy.
Regional Celebrations
- Widely observed across Maharashtra,
Gujarat, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Odisha, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu.
- In South India, it is known as Karadaiyan
Nonbu, representing the essence of womanhood.
Spiritual & Symbolic
Importance
- The Banyan tree (Vat Vriksha) embodies
the Trinity—Brahma (roots), Vishnu (stem), and Shiva (upper part).
Worship under its shade fulfills desires and blessings.
- Savitri’s Devotion: Just
as Savitri brought back Satyavan from Yamaraj, women observing
the vrat believe it strengthens marital bonds and fortune.
- Idol Worship: Devotees
install mud or gold idols of Savitri-Satyavan and Yamraj on a
buffalo, offering prayers with vermilion, saffron, and
sandalwood.
- Scriptural Recognition: Mentioned
in Skanda Puran, Nirnayamrit, and Bhavishyottar Puran,
affirming its importance in marital bliss and women’s strength.
Conclusion
Vat Purnima Vrat not only
fosters marital devotion but also honors the divine strength of women.
Whether fasting or offering prayers, the belief in love, commitment,
and blessings makes this vrat profoundly auspicious and
rewarding.
2026 Date: June 29.