Vat Savitri Puja is a significant Hindu festival observed by married women in various parts of India, especially in the states of Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, and Madhya Pradesh. In 2026, this auspicious day falls on May 13. The puja is dedicated to the banyan tree (Vat Vriksha) and is performed to seek the blessings of Lord Yama and the legendary Savitri for the long life and well-being of husbands.
Significance of Vat Savitri Puja
The festival commemorates the story of Savitri, who, through her unwavering devotion and intelligence, brought her husband Satyavan back to life from the clutches of Yama, the god of death. Married women observe a fast and perform rituals around a banyan tree, symbolizing strength and longevity. It is believed that observing this puja with full devotion ensures a happy and prosperous married life.
Essential Samagri List for Vat Savitri Puja 2026
To perform the rituals correctly, it is important to have all the necessary items. Here is a comprehensive list of samagri required for Vat Savitri Puja:
- Banyan tree branch or leaves: A small branch or at least five leaves of the banyan tree are essential as they represent the deity.
- Kalash (sacred pot): A copper or brass pot filled with water, mango leaves, and a coconut on top.
- Red cloth: A piece of red cloth to wrap around the tree or for the puja thali.
- Chunri or saree: A red or yellow chunri or saree to offer to the tree.
- Rice (Akshat): Unbroken rice grains mixed with turmeric for offerings.
- Turmeric powder (Haldi) and Kumkum: For tilak and applying to the tree.
- Sandalwood paste (Chandan): For applying on the tree and for the puja.
- Flowers and garlands: Marigold, jasmine, or any red flowers; also a garland to offer.
- Fruits: Seasonal fruits like banana, apple, and coconut as offerings.
- Sweets: Traditional sweets like peda, laddoo, or halwa for prasad.
- Betel leaves and nuts (Paan): A few betel leaves with areca nuts.
- Camphor (Kapur): For aarti.
- Incense sticks (Agarbatti) and dhoop: For fragrance during the puja.
- Ghee and cotton wicks: For lighting lamps.
- Puja thali: A decorative plate to arrange all items.
- Water in a lota: For offering and cleaning.
- Red or yellow thread (Moli): To tie around the tree or wrist.
- Picture or idol of Savitri-Satyavan: Optional but helpful for meditation.
How to Perform Vat Savitri Puja
On the day of the puja, women wake up early, take a bath, and wear clean clothes. They then go to a banyan tree, clean the area, and set up the puja items. The tree is worshipped by applying tilak, offering flowers, and tying the sacred thread. The story of Savitri is recited, and prayers are offered for the husband's long life. After the puja, women break their fast by consuming the prasad.
Performing Vat Savitri Puja with the right samagri and devotion is believed to bring peace, prosperity, and happiness to married life. Women across India observe this festival with great faith and enthusiasm.
