Vat Savitri Vrat, a symbol of faith, love and unbreakable relationship, holds great importance for married women. On this day, married women observe a fast for the long life and happiness of their husbands and worship the Vat or Banyan tree. This year Vat Savitri Vrat will be observed on Monday, May 26.
In Hinduism, the Vat or Banyan tree is considered especially sacred. Its significance increases even more on the day of Vat Savitri Vrat. It is believed that the Tridev i.e. Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh reside in this tree. Its roots are considered to be Brahma, the trunk is Vishnu and the branches are considered to be the form of Shiva.
On the day of Vat Savitri Vrat, married women worship the banyan tree and wrap raw thread around it and do seven parikramas.
Not just a religious ritual
This tradition is not just a religious ritual, but is considered a symbol of faith, love and unbreakable relationship. Let us know why raw thread is wrapped seven times on the banyan tree on the day of Vat Savitri Vrat? What is its religious significance?
Relationship between husband and wife lasts for seven births
According to religious beliefs, on the day of Vat Savitri Vrat, women follow many rules and tie raw thread to the banyan tree and circumambulate it seven times. Its main purpose is that, by wrapping raw thread seven times on the banyan tree, the relationship between husband and wife lasts for seven births.
It is also said that, by tying Kalava (sacred thread) on the banyan tree on the day of Vat Savitri, the danger of untimely death is also averted. Keeping this wish in mind, women wrap thread on the banyan tree on the day of Vat Savitri.
Story of Vat Savitri Vrat
Vat Savitri Vrat and the story associated with it have been prevalent since ancient times. According to mythology, Yamraj returned the life of Mata Savitri's husband, Satyavan, under the Vat tree and granted him the boon of 100 sons.
It is said that since then the tradition of Vat Savitri Vrat and worship of Vat tree started. This belief associated with Vat Savitri Vrat also says that by worshiping the banyan tree, one gets the blessings of the Tridevs along with Yamraj Devta. Therefore, worship of banyan tree has importance in Hinduism.
Prakash Kumar Pandey