Annual Fasts — Hindu Sacred Fast
Vat Savitri Vrat
Vat Savitri Vrat is observed by married Hindu women on the Amavasya (new moon) of Jyeshtha month, though some traditions observe it on Jyeshtha Purnima. The fast commemorates the legendary devotion of Savitri, who followed Yama (the god of death) and argued so brilliantly for her husband Satyavan's life that Yama himself returned him to her. Women tie threads around a banyan tree (Vat/Bargad) — which symbolizes eternal life and marital fidelity — and pray for their husband's long life.
Last updated: 23 April 2026 · Source: Vedic Tradition
Benefits
Ensures long life and good health of the husband, strengthens the marital bond, grants the power of Savitri's devotion and wisdom, removes untimely death from the family, and bestows prosperity and happiness in married life.
Procedure
Observe fast from sunrise. Visit a banyan tree with offerings of flowers, incense, kumkum, and sweets. Wind a sacred thread (mauli) around the tree trunk while circling it (parikrama) 108 or 7 times. Recite the Vat Savitri Vrat Katha and Savitri-Satyavan story. Offer water to the tree. Apply sindoor and perform aarti. Pray for the husband's longevity. Break fast in the evening after the ritual.
When to Observe
Jyeshtha Amavasya — once per year (May/June). Some traditions observe on Jyeshtha Purnima instead.
Fasting Rules
Complete fast (nirjala or phalahar) from sunrise. No grains or salt. Fruits, milk, and water are permitted for phalahar observance. Some women observe a strict nirjala fast for the entire day out of devotion.
How to Break the Fast
Break fast in the evening after completing the banyan tree rituals and katha. Husband offers the first morsel of food and sip of water to the wife, mirroring the Savitri-Satyavan story.
FAQ
Q.What is Vat Savitri Vrat?
Vat Savitri Vrat is observed by married Hindu women on the Amavasya (new moon) of Jyeshtha month, though some traditions observe it on Jyeshtha Purnima. The fast commemorates the legendary devotion of Savitri, who followed Yama (the god of death) and...
Q.What are the fasting rules for Vat Savitri Vrat?
Complete fast (nirjala or phalahar) from sunrise. No grains or salt. Fruits, milk, and water are permitted for phalahar observance. Some women observe a strict nirjala fast for the entire day out of devotion.
Q.When should Vat Savitri Vrat be observed?
Jyeshtha Amavasya — once per year (May/June). Some traditions observe on Jyeshtha Purnima instead.
Q.What are the benefits of Vat Savitri Vrat?
Ensures long life and good health of the husband, strengthens the marital bond, grants the power of Savitri's devotion and wisdom, removes untimely death from the family, and bestows prosperity and happiness in married life.