Jyeshtha Amavasya Fast Story

Long ago, King Ashwapati of the Bhadr Kingdom had a daughter named Savitri, who was born after years of prayers and penance. She grew into a radiant and intelligent young woman, but her father struggled to find a suitable groom for her. Disheartened, he allowed Savitri to choose her own husband. While wandering in a forest, Savitri met Satyavan, the son of King Dyumatsena of the Salwa Kingdom, who was living in exile after losing his kingdom to enemies. Satyavan’s qualities impressed Savitri, and she decided to marry him. When Sage Narada learned about this, he warned King Ashwapati that Satyavan was virtuous but had a short lifespan, and he would die within a year. He advised Savitri to reconsider her choice. However, Savitri insisted that she would marry Satyavan, as Aryan girls chose their husbands only once. Resolute in her decision, Savitri married Satyavan and moved to the forest to serve her husband and his family. As Satyavan’s death approached, Savitri grew anxious and began fasting for his longevity. She performed rituals dedicated to her ancestors on the predicted day of his demise. On that day, Satyavan went to the forest to chop wood, and Savitri followed him. Satyavan suddenly felt pain and collapsed. As she held his head in her lap, Lord Yama (God of Death) appeared. Savitri pleaded with Yama not to take her husband's life, but he refused. Undeterred, Savitri followed Yama, praying for her husband’s life. Yama was impressed by Savitri's devotion and offered her a boon, asking her to request anything except Satyavan's life. Savitri first asked for divine sight for her blind in-laws, which Yama granted. Then she asked for her father-in-law’s kingdom to be restored, which was also granted. Even after receiving two boons, Savitri continued to follow Yama. Finally, Yama offered her a third boon. Savitri cleverly requested 100 children, which Yama granted. She then reasoned with Yama, asking how she could have children without her husband. Faced with her wisdom and unwavering devotion, Yama restored Satyavan’s life and blessed Savitri with eternal prosperity. Savitri returned to the Vat tree where Satyavan’s body lay, and he miraculously regained life. Together, they returned happily to their kingdom and lived a long, blissful life. This tale emphasizes the power of devotion, resilience, and love.