Santoshi Mata Friday Vrat Katha

An old woman had seven sons and their wives. The youngest son\'s wife was very poor but deeply devoted to God. One day she saw some women observing Santoshi Mata\'s vrat and asked them about the ritual. They explained that by fasting for sixteen consecutive Fridays and offering jaggery and roasted chickpeas as prasad, the Goddess would be pleased. The youngest daughter-in-law began observing the fast with sincere devotion. Every Friday she offered jaggery and chickpeas and listened to the katha. Santoshi Mata was pleased with her devotion. Gradually, prosperity began flowing into her household. Her husband found good work and there was no shortage of wealth or grain at home. However, when the elder daughters-in-law saw the youngest one\'s growing prosperity, they became jealous. On the day of the concluding ceremony, they mixed sour food into the offering, which is displeasing to the Goddess. Santoshi Mata became angry and misfortunes began befalling the youngest wife. She once again fasted with a pure heart and begged the Goddess for forgiveness. The Mata was pleased and removed all her troubles, blessing her with eternal happiness. The elder wives also admitted their mistake and everyone worshipped the Goddess together.

Observe the fast for sixteen consecutive Fridays. Prepare prasad of jaggery and roasted chickpeas. Listen to the Santoshi Mata katha. Sour food is strictly prohibited during the vrat. On the sixteenth Friday, perform the concluding ceremony (udyapan) and feed eight boys.

Santoshi Mata's vrat bestows contentment and prosperity. It is especially observed by women for family happiness and fulfillment of wishes.