Bhubaneswar: Hindu married women across Odisha are observing the Sabitri Brata, also known as Jyestha Amavasya, with great fervour and devotion today. The day is significant for married women, who fast and worship Goddess Savitri, seeking her blessings for the good health and long life of their husbands.
As the sun rises, women adorned in traditional attire, including new clothes, bangles, and vermilion, can be seen flocking to temples or worshiping at home. The temples witness a surge in women devotees, while others are inviting priests to perform the rituals at their residences.
The women are paying homage to Mahasati Sabitri, revered for her unwavering devotion to her husband, Satyaban. By observing the Sabitri Brata, women seek to emulate her devotion and dedication, praying for the well-being and longevity of their own husbands.
The festivities are marked by vibrant colours, with women wearing traditional sarees and ornaments. The temples are filled with devotees, who have gathered to seek the blessings of Goddess Sabitri. The day-long fast and worship are a testament to the strong faith and devotion of Odisha’s married women, who come together to celebrate this auspicious occasion.
Significance of Sabitri Brata
Sabitri Brata is a festival that combines spiritual, cultural, and social elements, highlighting the importance of marital devotion, women’s roles in family well-being, and the pursuit of spiritual growth. It is a celebration that underscores the values of love, devotion, and commitment in relationships.
Sabitri Brata is a significant festival celebrated in Odisha, India, particularly among women. It is observed on the Amabasya the month of Jyestha. The festival holds great cultural and spiritual importance, and its significance can be understood in several ways:
- Worship of Sabitri Devi: The festival is dedicated to Goddess Sabitri, who is revered as the embodiment of marital fidelity, devotion, and the well-being of husbands. Women worship Goddess Sabitri, seeking her blessings for the long life and prosperity of their husbands.
- Fasting and Prayers: On this day, women observe a fast, often without consuming food or water, and perform various rituals and prayers. The fast is undertaken with great devotion, and women pray for the well-being and longevity of their husbands.
- Cultural Significance: Sabitri Brata is deeply rooted in Odia culture and is considered an essential part of a woman’s life. It reflects the cultural values and traditions of Odisha, emphasizing the importance of marital harmony and the role of women in maintaining family well-being.
- Spiritual Significance: The festival is also significant from a spiritual perspective, as it is believed to bring spiritual growth and blessings to the women who observe it. By worshiping Goddess Sabitri, women seek to cultivate virtues like devotion, patience, and self-discipline.
- Social Bonding: Sabitri Brata also serves as an occasion for social bonding among women. They come together to perform the rituals, share stories, and support each other in their spiritual and familial endeavours.
Sabitri Brata is a festival that combines spiritual, cultural, and social elements, highlighting the importance of marital devotion, women’s roles in family well-being, and the pursuit of spiritual growth. It is a celebration that underscores the values of love, devotion, and commitment in relationships.
