Festivals of India: Kajari Teej – Celebrating the Divine Union of Shiva and Parvati

Posted on August 21, 2024 by memoriesandsuch

India is a land of diverse cultures and traditions, where festivals hold a sacred place in the hearts of its people. Among the myriad of celebrations that adorn the Indian calendar, Kajari Teej stands out as a vibrant and deeply revered festival, particularly in the northern regions of the country. This auspicious occasion, celebrated by married women, is a testament to the enduring love and devotion between Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, the divine couple whose union symbolises the eternal bond of marriage.

Kajari Teej, also known as Badi Teej, Kajali Teej, or Satudi Teej, finds its roots in the ancient Hindu scriptures and mythological tales. The word Teej refers to the third day of the lunar cycle, which holds immense significance in the Hindu calendar. This festival is celebrated on the third day of the waning moon or Krishna Paksha in the month of Bhadrapada, typically falling in August or September. This year Kajari Teej falls tomorrow.

The festival’s name, Kajari, is derived from the word Kajal, which refers to the traditional kohl or kajal used to adorn the eyes. This name is a nod to the belief that on this day, Lord Shiva applied kajal to his eyes before marrying Goddess Parvati, symbolising the beauty and allure of their sacred union.

At the heart of Kajari Teej lies the mythological tale of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati’s marriage. According to Hindu mythology, Parvati, the daughter of the Himalayas, was deeply enamoured with Lord Shiva, the supreme ascetic and the destroyer of evil. Determined to win his heart, she underwent severe austerities and penances, eventually impressing Lord Shiva with her unwavering devotion. On the auspicious day of Kajari Teej, their divine union was solemnised, marking the triumph of love and perseverance over all obstacles.

Kajari Teej is primarily celebrated in the northern states of India, where it holds immense cultural and religious significance. The festival is observed with great fervour in Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, and parts of Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh.

In Rajasthan, the celebration of Kajari Teej is particularly vibrant and grand. The city of Bundi, known for its rich cultural heritage, hosts a month-long celebration that culminates on the day of Kajari Teej. The festivities in Bundi are marked by colourful processions, traditional music and dance performances, and a grand fair called the Kajali Teej Mela.

The celebration of Kajari Teej is a joyous occasion filled with rituals and traditions that honour the sacred bond of marriage and the divine love between Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Married women observe a strict fast on the day of Kajari Teej, abstaining from food and water from sunrise to sunset. This fast, known as the Nirjala Vrat, is a symbol of their devotion and a means to seek blessings for a long and prosperous married life. On the eve of Kajari Teej, women adorn themselves in vibrant attire, apply henna or mehndi on their hands and feet, and decorate their homes with rangoli and diyas or earthen lamps. They then perform a special puja, offering prayers and seeking blessings from Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Clay idols of the divine couple are often placed on a red cloth, and offerings of flowers, fruits, and sweets are made. One of the most captivating aspects of Kajari Teej is the singing of traditional folk songs called Kajris. These melodious compositions narrate the love story of Shiva and Parvati, celebrating their union and the virtues of a devoted wife. Women gather in groups, adorned in colourful attire, and sing these songs with great enthusiasm, accompanied by the rhythmic clapping of hands and the beating of drums.

The neem tree holds a sacred place in the celebration of Kajari Teej. It is believed that Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati rested under a neem tree after their marriage. As a result, married women perform a special puja around a neem tree, adorning it with vermilion, flowers, and offerings. They also tie sacred threads around the tree, symbolising their wish for a long and prosperous married life. As the sun sets on the day of Kajari Teej, women break their fast by consuming a traditional dish made of sattu or roasted gram flour. This dish, known as Sattu ki Ghari, is prepared with love and shared among family members and friends. The breaking of the fast is accompanied by joyous celebrations, music, and the exchange of blessings.

Like many Indian festivals, Kajari Teej is steeped in mythology and folklore, with various stories and legends associated with its origin. The most widely known myth behind Kajari Teej is the story of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati’s marriage. According to the legend, Parvati, the daughter of the Himalayas, was deeply enamoured with Lord Shiva, the supreme ascetic. To win his heart, she underwent severe austerities and penances, eventually impressing Lord Shiva with her unwavering devotion. On the auspicious day of Kajari Teej, their divine union was solemnised, marking the triumph of love and perseverance over all obstacles. The neem tree holds a special place in the celebration of Kajari Teej, and there is a legend associated with its significance. It is believed that after their marriage, Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati rested under a neem tree, seeking respite from the scorching sun. Since then, the neem tree has been revered as a symbol of their sacred union, and women perform a special puja around it during the festival.

Another popular myth associated with Kajari Teej is the story of Lord Shiva applying kajal or kohl to his eyes before his marriage to Parvati. It is said that Shiva adorned his eyes with kajal to enhance his beauty and allure, symbolising the eternal love and devotion between the divine couple. This legend is believed to be the origin of the festival’s name, Kajari Teej. The melodious Kajri songs, an integral part of the Kajari Teej celebrations, are said to have their roots in a mythological tale. According to legend, when Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati were separated for a brief period, Parvati composed and sang these songs to express her longing and devotion for her beloved husband. These songs, filled with love and longing, have since become an integral part of the festival’s celebrations.

Kajari Teej is a vibrant and deeply revered festival that celebrates the eternal love and devotion between Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Through its rituals, traditions, and mythological tales, it reinforces the sacred bond of marriage and the virtues of a devoted wife. As women across northern India observe this auspicious occasion, they not only honour the divine couple but also strengthen their marital bonds and seek blessings for a prosperous and fulfilling life. Kajari Teej is a testament to the enduring power of love, perseverance, and the rich cultural tapestry that weaves together the diverse traditions of India.

Festivals of India: Tulsidas Jayanti

Posted on August 12, 2024 by memoriesandsuch

India’s rich cultural tapestry is woven with a myriad of festivals, each one a vibrant celebration of the country’s diverse heritage, traditions, and spiritual beliefs. Tulsidas Jayanti, honouring the life and legacy of Goswami Tulsidas, a revered saint-poet whose literary masterpiece, the Ramcharitmanas, has profoundly influenced the spiritual and cultural fabric of India, is celebrated annually and in 2024 it was celebrated yesterday, August 11.

The origins of Tulsidas Jayanti can be traced back to the life and times of Goswami Tulsidas. Born in the 16^th century, Tulsidas was a Ramanandi Vaishnava saint and poet whose unwavering devotion to Lord Rama inspired him to compose the epic Ramcharitmanas, a retelling of the Sanskrit Ramayana in the vernacular Awadhi language.

Tulsidas’ birth anniversary was first celebrated by his disciples and followers, who recognised the profound impact of his literary and spiritual contributions. As the years passed, the observance of Tulsidas Jayanti gained momentum, spreading across various regions of India, particularly in the northern states, where his influence was most profound.

Today, Tulsidas Jayanti is celebrated annually on the Saptami or the seventh day of the Shukla Paksha or the waxing phase of the moon in the Hindu month of Shravan, which typically falls in July or August according to the Gregorian calendar.

While Tulsidas Jayanti is observed across India, it holds particular significance in the northern states, where Tulsidas’ life and works have left an indelible mark. Tulsidas’ birthplace, Rajapur, located in the Chitrakoot district of Uttar Pradesh, is a major hub for Tulsidas Jayanti celebrations. Devotees from across the state and beyond flock to this sacred town to pay homage to the saint-poet. The state of Madhya Pradesh, particularly the cities of Chitrakoot and Orchha, where Tulsidas spent a significant part of his life, witnesses grand celebrations during Tulsidas Jayanti. Bihar, known for its rich cultural heritage and literary traditions, embraces Tulsidas Jayanti with great fervour, as Tulsidas’ works have had a profound influence on the region’s spiritual and literary landscape. Rajasthan, which has a deep-rooted devotion to Lord Rama, celebrates Tulsidas Jayanti with enthusiasm, honouring the saint-poet who brought the Ramayana to the masses through his poetic masterpiece. Beyond these states, Tulsidas Jayanti is celebrated in various parts of India, including Gujarat, Maharashtra, and other regions where Tulsidas’ teachings and literary works have found resonance.

The celebration of Tulsidas Jayanti is a joyous occasion filled with rituals and traditions that honour the life and teachings of Goswami Tulsidas. One of the most significant aspects of Tulsidas Jayanti is the recitation of Ramcharitmanas, Tulsidas’ magnum opus. Devotees gather in temples, community centres, and homes to collectively recite verses from this epic, immersing themselves in the divine narrative of Lord Rama’s life and teachings. Devotional songs, known as bhajans and kirtans, are an integral part of the Tulsidas Jayanti celebrations. These melodious compositions, often based on verses from Ramcharitmanas, are sung, filling the air with devotional melodies and praises to Lord Rama and Tulsidas. Scholars, spiritual leaders, and literary enthusiasts organise discourses and seminars to delve into the life, works, and teachings of Tulsidas. These intellectual gatherings provide a platform for discussions, debates, and the dissemination of knowledge about Tulsidas’ literary and spiritual contributions. Tulsidas Jayanti is also celebrated through various cultural performances, such as plays, dance dramas, and musical renditions. These artistic expressions bring to life the stories and teachings from Ramcharitmanas, captivating audiences and instilling a deeper appreciation for Tulsidas’ literary genius. In keeping with the spirit of Tulsidas’ teachings, many devotees engage in charitable acts and community service during the festival. This may include distributing food and essentials to the needy, organising blood donation camps, or participating in environmental conservation efforts.

The life and works of Goswami Tulsidas are steeped in myths, legends, and fascinating stories that have been passed down through generations. These tales not only add to the mystique surrounding Tulsidas but also serve as a source of inspiration and guidance for devotees. One of the best-known stories about Tulsidas is his unwavering devotion to Lord Rama. It is said that Tulsidas was so devoted to Rama that he would not even utter the name of any other deity. This deep reverence for Lord Rama is believed to have been the driving force behind his literary masterpiece, Ramcharitmanas. According to legend, Tulsidas had a profound connection with Lord Hanuman, the ardent devotee of Lord Rama. It is said that Lord Hanuman himself appeared before Tulsidas and guided him on his spiritual journey, inspiring him to compose the Ramcharitmanas and spread the teachings of Lord Rama to the masses. One of the most captivating tales surrounding Tulsidas is his encounter with Lord Rama himself. It is believed that during his pilgrimage to Chitrakoot, Tulsidas had a divine vision of Lord Rama and his brother Lakshmana, which further deepened his devotion and inspired him to complete his literary masterpiece.

According to popular belief, Tulsidas was afflicted with a severe illness that left him bedridden. It is said that he was miraculously healed after reciting a verse from Ramcharitmanas, which he had composed during his illness. This legend further solidifies the belief in the divine power of Tulsidas’ literary work and his unwavering faith in Lord Rama. Another fascinating tale associated with Tulsidas is the story of his transformation from a worldly man to a devoted saint. It is said that Tulsidas initially led a worldly life, but a chance encounter with a spiritual mentor and a series of life-changing events led him to renounce the material world and dedicate his life to the pursuit of spiritual enlightenment and the service of Lord Rama.

Tulsidas Jayanti is a celebration that transcends religious boundaries, resonating with people from all walks of life who seek solace in the timeless wisdom and literary brilliance of Goswami Tulsidas. As we commemorate this auspicious occasion, we are reminded of the enduring power of faith, the transformative impact of literature, and the profound influence that one individual can have on shaping the cultural and spiritual fabric of a nation.

Through the recitation of Ramcharitmanas, the singing of devotional songs, and the retelling of myths and stories, we not only honor the life and legacy of Tulsidas but also keep alive the eternal teachings of Lord Rama, which have guided generations of devotees on the path of righteousness, compassion, and spiritual enlightenment.

Festivals of India: Hemis Tsechu

Posted on July 17, 2024 by memoriesandsuch

Ladakh, a mesmerising region nestled in the Indian Himalayas, is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and its vibrant cultural heritage. Among the various festivals celebrated in Ladakh, Hemis Tsechu holds a significant place. The annual two-day festival is a symbol of the region’s deep-rooted Buddhist traditions. The festival commemorates the birth anniversary of Guru Padmasambhava, a revered Buddhist master, credited with spreading Tantric Buddhism in the region in the 8th century.

Hemis Tsechu is an annual festival celebrated at the Hemis Monastery, one of the most significant monastic establishments in Ladakh. The festival honours the birth anniversary of Guru Padmasambhava, also known as Guru Rinpoche and the Second Buddha, the founder of Tibetan Buddhism. Guru Padmasambhava is revered for his teachings and his role in spreading Buddhism across the Himalayan region. Hemis Monastery, situated in the Hemis village, becomes the focal point of the festivities during this occasion. The festival is observed by the Drukpa lineage of Tibetan Buddhism, which is a sub-sect of the ancient Kagyu order. For the Drukpa order, Padmasambhava is considered an incarnation of the Buddha himself, and his birthday is celebrated annually with great reverence and devotion.

The Hemis Gompa or monastery, is the venue of the festival. The gompa is one of the largest and wealthiest Buddhist monasteries in Ladakh. Nestled in the picturesque Zanskar Range, the Hemis Monastery was founded in the 17th century under the patronage of King Sengge Namgyal and has since been a prominent centre of Buddhist learning and spirituality. The festival takes place in the vast courtyard of the monastery, where the sacred rituals and performances unfold against the backdrop of the majestic Himalayas. The monastery’s intricate architecture, adorned with vibrant murals and statues, creates an awe-inspiring atmosphere for the celebrations.

Hemis Tsechu is a two-day extravaganza filled with sacred rituals, mesmerising dances, and vibrant cultural displays. The festivities typically commence on the 10th day of the fifth month of the Tibetan calendar, which usually falls in June or July according to the Gregorian calendar. Preparations for Hemis Tsechu begin well in advance. The monastery is meticulously cleaned and adorned with colourful decorations, intricate Thangka paintings, and elaborate murals. The festival attracts devotees from far and wide, who arrive dressed in their finest traditional attire. The main highlight of the festival is the Cham Dance, a masked dance performed by the lamas or monks, of the monastery.

The Cham Dance is the heart and soul of Hemis Tsechu. Also known as the Masked Dance, the dance is performed by skilled monks adorned in elaborate costumes and intricate masks and depicts the victory of good over evil through a series of symbolic movements and gestures. The dancers represent various manifestations of Guru Padmasambhava, each with its unique mask and costume. The dances are accompanied by the rhythmic beats of drums, cymbals, and long horns, creating a hypnotic and mesmerising atmosphere. The dance not only entertains the audience but also serves as a medium of spiritual enlightenment and blessings.

Another significant ritual during the Hemis Tsechu is the unfurling of a massive silk thangka, a Buddhist religious scroll painting, depicting Guru Padmasambhava. This sacred ritual occurs every 12 years on the Tibetan calendar’s Monkey Year and is highly anticipated. Thangkas, considered a sacred art, depict various Buddhist deities, mandalas, and spiritual symbols. The unveiling of the Thangka is a solemn and awe-inspiring ceremony, with monks chanting sacred mantras and offering prayers as the intricate artwork is slowly revealed to the public. The thangka’s vibrant colours and intricate details are believed to bestow blessings upon those who witness it.

Throughout the two-day festival, monks from the monastery perform various rituals and ceremonies. These include prayer recitations, offerings to deities, and the destruction of a symbolic effigy representing evil forces. These rituals are believed to bring prosperity, happiness, and spiritual well-being to all those in attendance. The festival also features traditional Ladakhi music and dance performances, adding to the vibrant cultural tapestry of the celebrations.

The Hemis Tsechu festival stands out for its unique blend of ancient Buddhist traditions, vibrant cultural expressions, and the breathtaking natural setting of Ladakh. The festival holds deep spiritual significance for the Buddhist community, as it celebrates the life and teachings of Guru Padmasambhava, a revered figure who played a pivotal role in spreading Buddhism in the Himalayas. The Cham Dance, with its intricate masks and costumes, is unique to the festival. The dancers’ movements and gestures are steeped in symbolism, depicting the triumph of good over evil and the various manifestations of Guru Padmasambhava. The ceremonial unfurling of the massive silk thangka depicting Guru Padmasambhava is a rare and awe-inspiring event that occurs only once every 12 years, making it a truly unique experience for visitors. Hemis Tsechu offers a profound opportunity for cultural immersion, allowing visitors to experience the rich traditions, music, dance, and cuisine of the Ladakhi people against the backdrop of the majestic Himalayas. The festival’s location in the remote and isolated region of Ladakh adds to its mystique and allure, providing visitors with a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of modern life and immerse themselves in the serene and spiritual atmosphere of the Himalayas.

Hemis Tsechu offers a glimpse into the vibrant Ladakhi culture. The festival provides a platform for local artisans, craftsmen, and traders to showcase their traditional handicrafts, jewellery, and textiles. Visitors can explore the bustling market stalls and immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of Ladakhi artistry. Moreover, the festival provides an opportunity to savour the delicious traditional Ladakhi cuisine, including momos or dumplings, thukpa or noodle soup, and butter tea. The festival is a captivating celebration that seamlessly blends ancient Buddhist traditions with the vibrant cultural heritage of Ladakh. It offers a unique opportunity to witness the spiritual and artistic expressions of a region steeped in history and mysticism, making it a truly unforgettable experience for visitors from around the world.

Festivals of India: Jagannath Rath Yatra

Posted on July 8, 2024 by memoriesandsuch

Also known as the Chariot Festival, the Jagannath Rath Yatra is an annual Hindu celebration holding immense cultural and spiritual significance in Odisha and beyond. This grand festival commemorates the annual journey of Lord Jagannath, along with his elder brother Balabhadra and sister Subhadra, from the Jagannath Temple in Puri to the Gundicha Temple, where they reside for nine days before returning to their abode.

The Jagannath Rath Yatra festival has a rich history and deep-rooted origins in Hindu mythology and scriptures. According to the Brahma Purana, Padma Purana, Skanda Purana, and Kapila Samhita, the festival symbolises the fulfilment of a wish made by Subhadra, the sister of Lord Jagannath, to travel to the Gundicha Temple in Puri, believed to be their aunt’s house. To honour her desire, Lord Jagannath and his elder brother Balabhadra embarked on a journey to Puri, accompanied by Subhadra, in chariots, marking the beginning of this grand celebration. This annual pilgrimage of the deities from their home temple to their aunt’s temple is symbolised by the Rath Yatra festival. Historical accounts and inscriptions suggest that the festival was celebrated during the reign of King Purushottama Deva in the 12th century. The Jagannath Temple, where the deities reside, was constructed by Chodaganga Deva of the Ganga Dynasty in the 12th century. The festival’s popularity and significance have transcended geographical boundaries, with the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) spreading the celebrations to over 108 cities worldwide since 1968.

The festival holds immense spiritual significance for the devotees of Lord Jagannath, who is revered as an avatar or incarnation of Lord Vishnu and considered the Lord of the Universe in Hindu scriptures. The Jagannath Temple in Puri, where the deities reside, is one of the four sacred pilgrimage sites or one of the Char Dham sites in India, making it a site of profound reverence for Hindus worldwide.

The Yatra is a nine-day extravaganza filled with vibrant rituals, colourful processions, and an atmosphere of devotion and festivity. The festivities commence on the Shukla Paksha Dwitiya, the second day of the bright fortnight of the Hindu month of Ashadha, which typically falls in June or July according to the Gregorian calendar. This year, it fell on July 7.

The festival’s highlight is the grand chariot procession, where the deities of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra are placed on three massive, intricately carved wooden chariots known as raths. These chariots are meticulously constructed by skilled carpenters known as Maharanas over several weeks and have their own name and distinct design. The chariots are then pulled by thousands of devotees using thick ropes, accompanied by the rhythmic chanting of mantras, the beating of drums, and the blowing of conches. The procession moves along the Bada Danda or Grand Avenue in Puri, with the deities going to the Gundicha Temple, where they reside for nine days.

Throughout the nine-day festival, various rituals and celebrations take place, each holding its significance and adding to the overall grandeur of the event. On the day before the Rath Yatra, the deities are ceremonially bathed with 108 pitchers of water, known as the Snana Yatra or Bathing Ritual, symbolising purification and preparation for the journey. Pahandi Vijay is a ritual that marks the ceremonial transfer of the deities from the Jagannath Temple to the chariots, amidst chanting and devotional music. During the procession, devotees enthusiastically sweep the path ahead of the chariots with water, symbolising purification and devotion. This is known as Chhera Pahara or Sweeping with Water. On the fifth day, or Hera Panchami, the deities are offered a special meal, and devotees observe fasting and seek blessings. After nine days at the Gundicha Temple, the deities embark on their return journey to the Jagannath Temple, the Bahuda Yatra or the Return Journey, marking the culmination of the festival. On the final day, the deities are adorned with exquisite gold jewellery and ornaments, called Sunabesa or Adorning with Gold, symbolising their divine opulence. As the deities return from the Gundicha Temple, they stop at the Mausi Maa Temple or the Aunt’s Abode, where they are offered Poda Pitha, a special type of pancake believed to be Lord Jagannath’s favourite. On the way back from the Gundicha Temple, the chariot of Lord Jagannath pauses near the crematorium of Salabega, a Muslim devotee, to pay tribute to his unwavering devotion.

The Gundicha Temple holds immense significance in the Jagannath Rath Yatra festival. It is considered the Garden House or the aunt’s abode of Lord Jagannath, where the deities reside for nine days during the annual chariot festival. Several important rituals and ceremonies take place at the Gundicha Temple during the nine-day festival. One of the most significant is the Hera Panchami ritual, celebrated on the fifth day, where the deities are offered a special meal. The temple also houses the sacred Ratnavedi, a raised platform made of chlorite stone, where the deities are placed and worshipped during their stay. Gundicha Temple is an architectural masterpiece, built in the Kalinga style of temple architecture. Its intricate carvings, sculptures, and elaborate stonework showcase the finesse of Odisha’s cultural heritage. According to the Bamadev Samhita, witnessing the deities on the Simhasana or the sacred seat of the Gundicha Temple for a week is believed to grant a place in the heavenly abode of Vaikuntha for the devotees and their ancestors.

The three massive chariots used in the procession are engineering marvels, standing over 45 feet tall and weighing several tons. The intricately carved chariots with vibrant colours are meticulously constructed annually by skilled carpenters known as Maharanas. Each of the deities, Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra have their chariot with their distinct name, size, and colour scheme. Lord Jagannath’s chariot is known as Nandighosa. It stands at an imposing 45 feet high and 45 feet square at the wheel level. It has 16 wheels, each 7 feet in diameter, and is decked with a canopy of red and yellow cloth, signifying Lord Jagannath’s association with Lord Krishna or Pitambara. The chariot of Lord Balabhadra is called Taladhwaja, meaning the one with the palm tree on its flag. It is 44 feet high, with 14 wheels of 7 feet in diameter each, and is covered with red and blue cloth. Devi Subhadra’s chariot is known as Darpadalana, which translates to the trampler of pride. It stands 43 feet high, with 12 wheels of 7 feet in diameter, and is adorned with a covering of red and black cloth, with black symbolising the Mother Goddess and Shakti.

The chariots are not just massive structures but also artistic marvels. Each chariot is adorned with intricate carvings and painted wooden images called Parsva Devatas, representing various deities on the sides. The wheels, charioteers, and horses are also intricately carved and painted with vibrant colours and designs. Each chariot is attached to four horses of different colours – white for Balabhadra, dark for Jagannath, and red for Subhadra. The chariots also have their charioteers or sarathis – Matali for Jagannath, Daruka for Balabhadra, and Arjuna for Subhadra.

The construction of these chariots is a laborious process that begins months before the festival. The wood for the chariots is sourced from the former princely state of Dasapalla and transported to Puri via the Mahanadi River. A team of carpenters with hereditary rights and privileges build the chariots using specified types of wood like Phasi and Dhausa. The grand chariots are vehicles for the deities and symbols of Odisha’s rich cultural heritage and craftsmanship. Their sheer size, intricate designs, and meticulous construction process make them an integral part of the Jagannath Rath Yatra festival’s grandeur and spectacle.

During the Rath Yatra, the Jagannath Temple, which is usually off-limits to non-Hindus, opens its doors to people of all faiths and backgrounds, allowing them to participate in the festivities and seek blessings. The Jagannath Rath Yatra has transcended geographical boundaries and is now celebrated in over 108 cities worldwide, thanks to the efforts of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness or ISKCON. The Jagannath Rath Yatra is a magnificent celebration that seamlessly blends ancient traditions with contemporary cultural expressions. It is a testament to the enduring spiritual and cultural heritage of Odisha and India, attracting millions of devotees and visitors from around the world each year. The festival’s unique rituals, vibrant processions, and the spirit of devotion and inclusivity make it a truly unforgettable experience for all who witness it.

Festivals of India: Vata Savitri

Posted on June 24, 2024 by memoriesandsuch

Also known as Savitri Vrata or Savitri Amavasya, the festival of Vata Savitri has its roots deeply embedded in the ancient Hindu epic, the Mahabharata. The story behind this auspicious celebration centres around the legendary tale of Savitri and her husband, Satyavan.

According to the epic, Savitri was the beautiful and virtuous daughter of King Ashvapati. When the time came for her to choose a husband, she selected Satyavan, the exiled prince who lived in the forest with his blind father, Dyumatsena. Despite being warned by the sage Narada that Satyavan was destined to die within a year, Savitri remained steadfast in her decision to marry him.

On the fateful day, as Satyavan went to the forest to gather wood, he collapsed and died. Yama, the god of death, appeared to claim Satyavan’s soul. Undeterred, Savitri followed Yama and pleaded for her husband’s life. Moved by her unwavering devotion and determination, Yama granted her three boons. Savitri used these boons to restore her father-in-law’s sight and kingdom and ensure she would become the mother of a hundred sons. Ultimately, Yama, impressed by Savitri’s selfless love and courage, relented and returned Satyavan’s life to her. This act of Savitri’s triumph over death and her ability to secure her husband’s life have made her an exemplary figure of marital devotion and faithfulness in Hindu tradition. The festival of Vata Savitri commemorates this legendary story and the power of a woman’s love.

The name Savitri itself holds deep significance in Hindu mythology. Savitri is also the name of the Vedic goddess of knowledge, wisdom, and spiritual enlightenment. By invoking the name of Savitri, the festival emphasises the importance of understanding, devotion, and the sanctity of marriage.

Therefore, the name Savitri is central to the festival, as it represents the embodiment of the ideal wife and the triumph of love over death, which are the core themes celebrated during the Vata Savitri festival.

The festival of Vata Savitri is celebrated primarily by married Hindu women in various regions of India, particularly in the states of Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Bihar, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, and Haryana. The celebration is centred around the veneration of the Vata, or Banyan tree, believed to be the abode of the three primary deities in Hinduism; Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu, and Lord Brahma.

The Vata Savitri festival is observed with great devotion in the northern states of Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. Married women wake up early, bathe, and don their finest traditional attire and jewellery. The women then gather at a Vata tree, carrying a sacred white thread, and a Kalash, or pot, filled with water, turmeric, vermilion, and flowers. They worship the tree, lighting a ghee lamp and offering prayers for the well-being and longevity of their husbands. The highlight of the celebrations is the ritual of tying the white thread around the Vata tree seven times, symbolising the unbreakable bond between the wife and her husband. This act is believed to ensure the husband’s long and prosperous life. In some regions, the women also prepare a special satvik or pure meal, which they offer as a sacred offering to the deities. The day is marked by fasting, the chanting of mantras, and the exchanging of blessings among the women.

In Maharashtra, Goa, and Gujarat, the festival is known as Vat Purnima and is observed during the full moon, or Purnima, in the month of Jyeshtha. In Maharashtra, women fast for the entire day and tie red and orange threads around the auspicious Banyan tree, praying for the well-being and longevity of their husbands. In some parts of Maharashtra, the women also draw pictures of the Vata tree, Savitri, Satyavan, and Yama on the floor or walls using a paste of sandalwood and rice. These images are then worshipped with mantras and offerings. In Gujarat and Goa, women follow similar customs as those in Maharashtra.

In Odisha, the Vata Savitri festival is celebrated with a unique twist. Here, the women offer worship to a grinding stone or sila pua, which is considered a symbolic representation of Savitri. Women perform puja on the grinding stone, adorning it with flowers and applying vermilion. They also tie threads around the stone, seeking the blessings of Savitri for their husbands’ well-being. This regional variation in the celebration of Vata Savitri showcases the diverse cultural and traditional practices that have evolved around this ancient festival across different parts of India.

The festival of Vata Savitri holds immense spiritual and cultural significance for Hindu married women. It is a celebration of the unwavering love, devotion, and determination of Savitri, who defied the god of death to save her husband’s life. For Hindu women, Savitri is revered as an exemplary figure of marital fidelity and the embodiment of the ideal wife. The festival serves as a reminder of the power of a woman’s love and the importance of preserving the sanctity of marriage.

By observing the Vata Savitri fast and performing the rituals associated with the festival, married women seek to emulate Savitri’s virtues and pray for the long life and well-being of their husbands. The act of tying the thread around the Vata tree is believed to symbolise the unbreakable bond between the wife and her husband, and the desire for a prosperous and harmonious marital life. The festival also serves as a means of fostering community and social harmony, as the shared experience of celebrating Vata Savitri transcends religious, social, and economic boundaries. The women come together to support and encourage one another, strengthening the bonds of sisterhood and collective identity.

The festival of Vata Savitri is a testament to the enduring power of love, devotion, and the unwavering spirit of the human soul. The story of Savitri’s triumph over death and her ability to secure her husband’s life has made her a revered figure in Hindu tradition, inspiring generations of women to emulate her virtues and seek the blessings of the divine. Through the various rituals, customs, and celebrations associated with Vata Savitri, married Hindu women across India reaffirm their commitment to their husbands and seek divine grace to ensure their well-being and longevity.

As the Vata tree continues to be a symbol of longevity and the abode of the divine, the celebration of Vata Savitri serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving the sanctity of marriage and the enduring legacy of Savitri’s unwavering love and determination.

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