All the married women in North Indi observe vrat on the day of Vata Savitri Amavasya which is popularly known locally as Vat Amavasya. It is three day affair comprising of observing fast and performing rituals. It is to be highly noted that “Savitri Brata” or “Savitri Amavasya” is grandly observed on the ‘Amavasya’ in the month of ‘Jyestha’ or last day of the dark fortnight.
According to the Hindu religious scholars and pundits, this particular day is very auspicious for all the Hindu married women whose beloved husbands are alive. With great dedication and commitment, they take a vow, observe fasting, offer prayer and perform rituals for the long life and better health of their husbands.
Savitri Brata” or “Savitri Amavasya” reflects the significance and origin of the Vat-Savitri puja. According to the Hindu religious scholars and pundits, “The fasting is dedicated to Savitri and Satyavana her husband who was destined to die within one year but was brought back to life by her severe penance. The God of death, Yama is implored by Savitri when he is about to leave his body and due to her sheer determination and devotion to her husband, she wins him back to life and soon Satyavan regains his lost kingdom.”
On Savitri brata, 9 types of flower and 9 types of fruits are offered to the Goddess Savitri. Rice, wet pulses, mango, palm fruit, jack fruit, kendu, banana and various other fruits and flowers are offered as Bhoga (offering) and with Savitri barta katha the festival is grandly observed.