The Shani Jayanti on the 6th of June holds great significance. It is a time to honor Lord Shani, the deity associated with justice and discipline. Alongside Shani Jayanti, the day also marks the celebration of Vat Savitri Vrat, a fasting ritual observed by married women for the well-being of their husbands. To perform the Shani Puja, one must follow a specific procedure, known as the Shani Puja Vidhi. This ritual involves offering prayers and making offerings to Lord Shani to seek his blessings for protection and prosperity.
Thursday, June 6 marks the beginning of the Jyeshtha month, coinciding with the celebration of Shani Jayanti and the observance of the Vat Savitri fast. In addition to performing Shani Puja on Jyeshtha Amavasya, there is a tradition of worshipping the banyan tree.
According an astrologers, the Jyeshtha month holds great significance in terms of religious practices and rituals. The temperature during this month is extremely high, and observing fasts at this time brings about Akshaya Punya. Akshaya Punya refers to the accumulation of good karma that lasts a lifetime. This month also includes significant fasts and festivals such as Ganga Dussehra and Nirjala Ekadashi, which highlight the importance of water.
How you can celebrate Shani Jayanti
Shani Dev, known as the judge among the nine celestial bodies, is believed to be the son of the Sun God. Yamraj and Yamuna are Shani Dev’s step siblings. It is said that Shani Dev was born on the new moon day of the month of Jyeshtha.
On the occasion of Shani Jayanti, rise early in the morning and offer water to the Sun. Then, visit a Shani temple and anoint Shani Dev with mustard oil. Present him with blue-black garments, blue flowers, and black sesame seeds. Additionally, offer coconut, seasonal fruits, sweets, and light incense and lamps while chanting the mantra “Om Sham Shanaishcharaya Namah”. Perform the Aarti ritual.
Make donations of oil to those in need. Alongside this, you can also donate umbrellas, shoes, slippers, clothing, and grains.
Things to Know About Vat Savitri fast
The Vat Savitri Vrat holds great significance for women, akin to a sacred vow. According to ancient lore, on this very day, Savitri bravely rescued her husband Satyavan from the clutches of Yamraj.
Women observe the Vat Savitri fast to beseech for their husband’s prosperity, longevity, and well-being.
During this fast, the banyan tree is revered and a special ritual called abhishekam is performed for Shiva-Parvati.
Those who observe this fast also read and listen to the tale of Savitri, Satyavan, and Yamraj.
The story of Savitri, Satyavan, and Yamraj is a tale of love, devotion, and the power of a woman’s determination. It serves as a reminder of the strength and resilience that women possess. By observing the Vat Savitri fast, women not only pray for their husband’s well-being but also celebrate their own role as nurturers and protectors in the family. This tradition showcases the deep-rooted values and traditions that have been passed down through generations, highlighting the importance of honoring and cherishing the sacred bond of marriage.
The Vat Savitri Vrat is not just a religious ritual, but also a celebration of the sacred bond between a husband and wife. It symbolizes the commitment and dedication that women have towards their spouses. By observing this fast, women demonstrate their unwavering love and support, reaffirming their role as pillars of strength in their families. This tradition serves as a beautiful reminder of the values of love, loyalty, and devotion that are cherished in Indian culture.
