One of the most significant festivals observed by married Hindu women is Vat Savitri, primarily celebrated in various parts of North India. According to the Hindu Panchang, this day falls on the Amavasya tithi (new moon day) of the Krishna Paksha (dark fortnight) in the month of Jyeshtha.
Vat Savitri 2026: Date and Time
Vat Savitri Vrat will be observed on May 16, 2026. The Amavasya tithi begins on May 16, 2026, at 05:11 AM and ends on May 17, 2026, at 01:30 AM.
Significance of Vat Savitri Vrat
Married Hindu women hold Vat Savitri in high regard, fasting on this auspicious day for the longevity and well-being of their husbands. Since Amavasya Tithi falls on Vat Savitri, it is also known as Vat Amavasya. Women seek blessings and offer prayers to the Vat Vriksha (banyan tree), considered one of the most sacred trees in Hindu scriptures. The banyan tree is believed to be the abode of three major Hindu gods: Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu, and Lord Brahma.
Vat Savitri 2026: Puja Rituals
Women wake up early and take a bath before beginning any ritual. They wear traditional clothes and adorn themselves with jewelry. A satvik meal is prepared for bhog prasad, along with flowers, haldi, kumkum, a kalash filled with water, and kaccha soot (a sacred white raw thread).
Women visit a temple where a Vat Vriksha is present, light a diya with desi ghee, and offer everything to the deity. Prayers are offered for their husband's health and well-being. They circumambulate the tree and tie the white raw thread around it. Women seek blessings from elders and in-laws by touching their feet. Finally, they seek their husband's blessings by touching his feet and break the fast with sattvik food.
