Vat Savitri Vrat is one of the most sacred fasting rituals observed by married Hindu women, especially in North India, Maharashtra, Bihar and parts of eastern India. The vrat is dedicated to Goddess Savitri, whose devotion and determination are believed to have brought her husband Satyavan back to life from Lord Yama.

In 2026, Vat Savitri Vrat will be observed on Saturday, May 16 on the occasion of Vat Amavasya.

Women observe the vrat for:

• Long life of their husbands
• Family prosperity
• Marital happiness and well-being

The central ritual of the festival involves worshipping the sacred banyan tree (Vat Vriksha), which symbolises immortality, strength and longevity in Hindu tradition.

Complete Vat Savitri Puja Samagri List 2026

Before beginning the puja, devotees usually gather all required items in advance.

Essential Puja Items

• Bamboo basket or puja thali
• Roli (kumkum)
• Haldi (turmeric powder)
• Akshat (unbroken rice grains)
• Kalash filled with clean water
• Gangajal
• Incense sticks (agarbatti)
• Camphor (kapoor)
• Desi ghee diya
• Cotton wicks

Flowers & Offerings

• Fresh flowers
• Flower garlands
• Fruits
• Seasonal sweets
• Prasad items
• Soaked black chana or gram

Traditional Ritual Items

• Coconut
• Betel leaves (paan)
• Supari (betel nut)
• Milk and curd
• Sacred red or yellow thread
• Raw cotton thread for wrapping around banyan tree

Suhag Items

• Bangles
• Bindi
• Sindoor
• Chunari or new clothes
• Mehendi (optional)

These items symbolise marital prosperity and are considered auspicious during the vrat.

Banyan Tree Worship Items

• Banyan tree leaves or branch (if worshipping at home)
• Water for offering to the tree
• Puja mat or cloth for sitting

Why Is the Banyan Tree Worshipped?

The banyan tree, known as Vat Vriksha, holds deep spiritual significance in Hinduism.

It symbolises:

• Longevity
• Stability
• Eternal life
• Protection of family

During the puja, married women tie sacred threads around the tree while praying for the long and healthy life of their husbands.

Story Behind Vat Savitri Vrat

The vrat is associated with the legendary tale of Savitri and Satyavan.

According to Hindu mythology:

• Savitri was deeply devoted to her husband Satyavan
• When Lord Yama came to take Satyavan’s soul, Savitri followed him with unwavering determination
• Impressed by her devotion and intelligence, Lord Yama restored Satyavan’s life

This story symbolises:

• Faith
• Devotion
• Strength of marital commitment

Important Rituals of Vat Savitri Vrat

Women observing the vrat usually:

• Wake up early and bathe before sunrise
• Wear traditional and auspicious attire
• Observe nirjala or partial fast
• Worship the banyan tree
• Listen to or recite Savitri-Satyavan Katha
• Offer fruits, flowers and prasad
• Perform parikrama (circumambulation) of the tree while tying thread

In many communities, women also exchange puja items and blessings after completing the rituals.

Spiritual Importance of the Vrat

Vat Savitri Vrat is not just about fasting but also reflects:

• Dedication toward family
• Spiritual discipline
• Cultural traditions passed across generations

The vrat remains an important part of Hindu marital customs and continues to be observed with devotion across India.

Final Note

Devotees are advised to arrange all puja materials a day before the vrat to ensure smooth rituals on the auspicious day. Traditions and rituals may vary slightly depending on region and family customs.