Kamada Saptami Vrat is considered one of the most sacred fasts in Hinduism. It is observed on the seventh day (Saptami) of the Shukla Paksha (waxing phase of the moon) in the month of Chaitra. Worshiping Lord Vishnu and Surya Dev (Sun God) on this day is believed to bring happiness, prosperity, fulfillment of desires, and the blessing of children. The word “Kamada” means “one who fulfills desires,” and this vrat (fast) is primarily observed for wish fulfillment and blessings.
Significance of Kamada Saptami Vrat
This fast is mentioned in several Hindu scriptures. According to religious beliefs, observing this vrat grants devotees happiness, prosperity, children, and freedom from sins. It is especially auspicious for couples who are longing for children.
Kamada Saptami Vrat Katha (Legend)
According to the Puranas, there was a king who was childless despite performing numerous rituals and fasts. Disheartened, he approached a sage who advised him to observe the Kamada Saptami Vrat with devotion. The king and queen observed the fast with full faith, worshipped Lord Vishnu and Surya Dev, and as a result, they were blessed with a radiant and intelligent son.
This story highlights the spiritual power of Kamada Saptami Vrat in fulfilling desires, especially for childless couples.
Kamada Saptami Vrat Puja Vidhi (Worship Procedure)
Observing the Kamada Saptami Vrat with proper rituals brings immense benefits. The procedure is as follows:
1. Morning Bath and Sankalp (Resolution)
- Wake up early in the morning, take a bath, and wear clean clothes.
- Make a resolution (sankalp) to observe the fast and seek the blessings of Lord Vishnu and Surya Dev.
2. Rules of the Fast
- The devotee should observe a complete fast throughout the day. If a complete fast is not possible, fruits and milk can be consumed.
- Only satvik (pure vegetarian) food should be eaten, avoiding any tamasic (impure) foods.
3. Worship Rituals
- Place a yellow cloth on a sacred altar and install an idol or image of Lord Vishnu and Surya Dev.
- Offer yellow flowers, rice grains (akshat), sandalwood, incense, and basil leaves (Tulsi) to the deity.
- Perform an abhishek (holy bath) of Lord Vishnu with Ganga water and Panchamrit (a mixture of milk, curd, ghee, honey, and sugar).
- Offer jaggery, sesame seeds, rice, and kheer (sweet rice pudding made with milk) as bhog (holy offering).
4. Offering Water to Surya Dev (Arghya)
- Offering Arghya (water) to Surya Dev is considered highly auspicious on this day.
- Take a copper vessel, fill it with water, add red flowers and jaggery, and offer it to the rising Sun while chanting Surya Mantras.
For Lord Vishnu:
ॐ नमो भगवते वासुदेवाय नमः।
ॐ नारायणाय विद्महे वासुदेवाय धीमहि तन्नो विष्णुः प्रचोदयात्।
For Surya Dev:
ॐ घृणिः सूर्याय नमः।
ॐ ह्रीं ह्रीं सूर्याय नमः।
ॐ आदित्याय च विद्महे दिवाकराय धीमहि तन्नो सूर्यः प्रचोदयात्।
Aarti and Prasad Distribution
- Perform Aarti (divine song) of Lord Vishnu and Surya Dev.
- Distribute prasad (offering) to family members and Brahmins.
Benefits of Kamada Saptami Vrat
- Fulfills all desires and wishes.
- Brings happiness and harmony in married life.
- Blesses childless couples with offspring.
- Sun God's blessings bring health, radiance, and success.
- Grants freedom from sins and suffering.
Parana
- The fast is concluded the next morning by offering prayers and feeding Brahmins.
- After that, devotees can eat fruits or simple satvik food.
Kamada Saptami Vrat is a sacred Hindu fast observed for happiness, prosperity, and fulfillment of desires. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Surya Dev, it is especially beneficial for those seeking children, success, and relief from troubles. When performed with devotion, it brings divine grace and upliftment in life.