Introduction to the Festival:
Sama Panchami, also known as Rishi Panchami, is an important vow in Hinduism. This festival is observed on the fifth day (Panchami) of the Shukla Paksha in the month of Bhadrapada, which generally falls in August or September. This vow is especially observed by women for the atonement of any unintentional faults committed during menstruation. On this day, worship of the Sapta Rishis (Seven Sages) is performed, and taking a holy dip in sacred rivers holds special significance.
The Story Behind Sama Panchami:
According to the Brahman Purana, in the land of Vidarbha, a righteous Brahmin named Uttanka lived with his wife, Sushila, and their two children – a son and a daughter. When their daughter reached marriageable age, she was married into a family of similar social standing. After some time, she became a widow and moved to live with her parents on the banks of the river Ganga.
One day, while she was sleeping, worms began to infest her body. Uttanka meditated and discovered that in her previous birth, she had been a Brahmin woman who, despite being menstruating, had touched the kitchen utensils. In this birth, she had also failed to observe the Rishi Panchami vow. Upon her father's instructions, she observed the Rishi Panchami vow, which absolved her of all sins, and in her next life, she received eternal conjugal bliss.
Why We Celebrate This Festival:
This vow is observed by women to atone for any sins unknowingly committed during menstruation. By worshiping the Sapta Rishis, women achieve purity and sanctity. This vow is also considered important for the attainment of progeny, eternal marital bliss, and familial peace and prosperity.
Key Traditions of Sama Panchami:
Bathing: Women bathe in holy rivers or water bodies before sunrise.
Worship: Statues or pictures of the Sapta Rishis are set up for worship.
Vow: On this day, women refrain from consuming grains, vegetables, or salt.
Charity: At the end of the vow, women feed Brahmins and give donations.
Significance of the Festival:
The Rishi Panchami vow is a means for women to attain purity and sanctity. It is also considered significant for the well-being of their progeny, for eternal marital bliss, and for family peace and prosperity. By worshiping the Sapta Rishis, women move towards spiritual advancement and positivity in their lives.