Bargad(banyan) -Holy tree

Banyan Tree(Vat Vriksha,Bargard)

The banyan tree is mentioned in many scriptures as a tree of immortality. Its aerial roots grow down into the soil forming additional trunks and therefore called Bahupada, the one with several feet (Bahu-several, Pada-feet). It symbolizes longevity and represents the divine creator, Brahma.  The numerous stems of the banyan tree are regarded as the home of gods and spirits.

The Puranas tell the story of Savitri, who lost her husband a year after their marriage. He died under a banyan tree and by worshipping it; Savitri was able to follow Yama-the Lord of Death himself and win back her husband’s life as well as secure prosperity and progeny. This powerful legend has made Savitri an ideal of Indian womanhood and established the Vat-Savitri Vrata.

On the full-moon night(purnima) in month of Jyeshtha (June), all married women fast and circumambulate the banyan to pray for the long and healthy life of their husbands. 

Married women worship Vat vriksha and Savitri to seek her blessings for longevity of their husbands .They observe fasting for three days and break it on fourth day. It starts on Trayodashi day and ends on Purnima.

The banyan tree is said to have nourished mankind with its ‘milk’ before the advent of grain and other food.

If you are suffering from stomach related problems, then you should pour sweet milk in the roots of the banyan tree and then apply a tilak on your forehead with that wet mud. 

Giving water to the roots of banyan tree is auspicious and reduce the  evil effects of many planets.