Jaya Parvati Vrat: A fast observed by unmarried girls to receive their desired husband and by married women to pray for lasting marital bliss
Jaya Parvati Vrat: This fast holds a special place in Hinduism. This fast is mainly observed by unmarried girls and married women. Unmarried girls observe it to find a good life partner, while married women observe it for the long life of their husbands and for peace and happiness in their homes. This fast lasts for five days, starting from the thirteenth day of the bright half of the month of Ashadha. Its mythological story depicts the grace of Goddess Parvati and the power of devotion, which brings happiness to the lives of all devotees.
The Beginning of the Mythological Story: The Childlessness of a Brahmin Couple
In ancient times, in the city of Kaundilya, there lived a learned Brahmin named Vaman. His wife was Satya. Their life was prosperous in every way, but they were deeply saddened by their childlessness. They constantly felt this void and prayed to God. One day, Sage Narada visited their home. The Brahmin couple respectfully welcomed him and narrated their sorrow. Narada told them that in the southern forest outside the city, Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati were present in the form of a Shivalinga under a Bilva tree. Regular worship of this Shivalinga could fulfill all their desires.
The Discovery of the Shivalinga and Regular Worship
Following Narada’s advice, the Brahmin and his wife found the Shivalinga. They began worshipping it daily with complete devotion. Offering flowers, lighting incense and lamps, and chanting mantras became their daily routine. Five years passed in this way. Their devotion was so deep that they never tired. But one day, while the Brahmin was plucking flowers in the forest, a poisonous snake bit him. He fell down and became unconscious.
The Brahmin’s Wife’s Lament and the Appearance of Goddess Parvati
When the Brahmin did not return home for a long time, Satya went to the forest to look for him. Seeing her husband in a near-dead state, she wept bitterly. She called out to the forest deity and Goddess Parvati. Her plea was so sincere that Goddess Parvati herself appeared along with the forest deity. The Goddess poured nectar into the Brahmin’s mouth, and he immediately came back to life. Both fell at the feet of Goddess Parvati, expressing their gratitude and offering prayers.
The Boon and the Establishment of the Jaya Parvati Vrat
Goddess Parvati was very pleased with the devotion of the Brahmin couple. She asked them to ask for a boon. They wished for a child. The Goddess smiled and said, “Begin this special fast from Ashadha Shukla Trayodashi (the thirteenth day of the bright half of the month of Ashadha). By observing this fast, your wish will surely be fulfilled.” The Brahmin couple did exactly as instructed. They observed the fast and performed the puja for five days according to the prescribed rituals. As a result, they were blessed with a beautiful son.
The Significance and Benefits of the Jaya Parvati Vrat
Since then, this fast has been known as the Jaya Parvati Vrat. ‘Jaya’ means victory, which, through the grace of Goddess Parvati, grants victory over every obstacle in life. This fast bestows the blessings of children and eternal marital bliss. Married women observe it to strengthen their marital life. It fulfills wishes for their husband’s longevity, prosperity in the home, and family happiness. Unmarried girls observe it with great devotion to find a suitable husband.
The Relevance of the Jaya Parvati Vrat in Modern Times
Even in modern life, this fast remains popular among women. It is celebrated with great enthusiasm in Gujarat, Rajasthan, and many parts of North India. During the fast, women observe a waterless fast or consume only fruits. Listening to the story of Goddess Parvati and performing the puja in the evening is mandatory. This fast not only fulfills personal desires but also brings peace of mind and self-confidence. Devotion to Goddess Parvati provides the strength to overcome life’s difficulties.
Beliefs and Precautions Associated with the Fast
It is believed that by observing this fast with complete devotion, Goddess Parvati protects one from all dangers. During the days of the fast, one should refrain from anger, lies, and negative thoughts. Maintain a positive atmosphere at home. All family members should gather while listening to the story; this multiplies the blessings manifold. Women who regularly observe this fast experience lasting happiness and peace in their lives.
The Jaya Parvati Vrat is not just a religious ritual, but a symbol of devotion and faith. It teaches us that with true devotion, no wish remains unfulfilled. Even in today’s busy life, women can fulfill their desires and strengthen their families by observing this fast.