by Arun Pathak
Bokaro: The sacred festival of Vat Savitri Puja was observed with immense faith, devotion and traditional enthusiasm across Bokaro on Saturday, as married women performed special rituals and observed day-long fasts for the long life, prosperity and well-being of their husbands.
From early morning, temples and banyan tree sites across the city witnessed large gatherings of women dressed in colourful traditional attire, adorned with bangles, sindoor and festive ornaments. Holding puja plates filled with fruits, flowers, sweets and sacred offerings, devotees gathered around the revered banyan tree (Vat Vriksha) to perform the age-old rituals associated with the festival.
Women circumambulated the banyan tree while tying sacred threads around its trunk and offering prayers for marital happiness, family prosperity and eternal companionship. Many devotees were seen chanting hymns and performing rituals in accordance with traditional customs passed down through generations.
A major part of the observance included listening to the legendary story of Satyavan and Savitri, which symbolises unwavering devotion, marital loyalty and spiritual strength. According to Hindu belief, Savitri’s determination and devotion brought her husband Satyavan back from the clutches of death, making the festival a powerful symbol of faith and dedication.
Several temples and community centres in Bokaro also organised collective puja ceremonies and spiritual discourses, where women participated with great enthusiasm. Markets across the city witnessed festive activity as shops selling puja items, bangles, cosmetics, sweets and traditional garments saw heavy crowds ahead of the celebrations.
The festival, deeply rooted in India’s cultural and spiritual heritage, once again reflected the strong bond of faith, family values and tradition that continues to hold significance in Indian society.
