Overview
Karadaiyan Nonbu, also known as Savitri Vratham, is a deeply symbolic and heartfelt observance performed by Tamil Hindu women, especially married women, in reverence to the legendary devotion of Savitri, who brought her husband Satyavan back to life from the clutches of Yama, the god of death. Here’s how this sacred ritual is celebrated at home:
Home Rituals and Traditions
On the day of Karadaiyan Nonbu, women wake up early, bathe, and clean the house to purify the space. They draw kolam (rangoli) designs at the entrance and in the prayer area. A puja altar is set up with images or idols of deities such as Savitri-Satyavan, Lakshmi, and Vishnu.
Nonbu Charadu, a sacred yellow thread with turmeric, is tied around the neck by married women (and also young girls who wish to follow the tradition), praying for the long life and well-being of their husbands or future spouses. Special offerings (naivedyam) are made, consisting of the signature dish: Karadai — a steamed adai (sweet or savory) made of rice flour, black-eyed peas, and jaggery or salt, depending on the version.
Fasting and Timing
Women observe a fast on this day and break it after tying the sacred thread and offering prayers. The timing of the ritual is significant — it is performed at the exact moment when the Tamil month of Masi ends and Panguni begins (usually in March), as this marks the auspicious hour of Savitri’s triumph over fate.
Family Involvement and Generational Bond
In many homes, grandmothers, mothers, and daughters participate together, making this a multi-generational celebration of feminine strength and devotion. The passing down of rituals, songs, and stories of Savitri enhances family bonding and preserves cultural memory.