Vata Purnima

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Vat Purnima (Vat Savitri)

What is it
Vat Purnima is a Hindu festival celebrated mainly by married women in North India and in parts of Maharashtra, Goa, and Gujarat. It falls on the full moon day during the three days of the month of Jestha (May–June). Women fast and tie a sacred thread around a banyan tree to pray for their husbands’ long and healthy lives.

The story behind it
The festival is based on the legend of Savitri and Satyavan from the Mahabharata. Savitri marries Satyavan, who is foretold to die within a year. She undertakes a strict fast and vigil. When Death (Yama) comes for Satyavan, Savitri’s devotion and cleverness win her a series of boons, and finally Yama returns Satyavan’s life. The banyan tree is tied to the story and is worshiped in memory of Savitri and her love.

How it is celebrated
During the three days, households draw pictures of the Vat tree, Savitri, Satyavan, and Yama with sandalwood paste and rice. A miniature image of the couple sits in sand and is worshiped with mantras and Vat leaves. Outdoors, the banyan tree is worshiped, and a thread is wound seven times around its trunk, with copper coins offered. These rites are believed to protect the husband and ensure his well-being for seven births.

Modern practice
Today, women often wear fine sarees and jewelry, offer five fruits and a coconut, and fast for the day. The thread around the banyan tree symbolizes their prayers for their husbands’ long, prosperous lives. The festival is especially observed in parts of North and Western India.