The Sawan, also known as the month of Shravan, is an auspicious month in the Hindu calendar that holds great significance for devotees of Lord Shiva. This year, Sawan commenced on Monday, July 6, 2020, and will conclude on Tuesday, August 3, 2020. During this period, devotees observe Sawan Somvar Vrat (fast on Mondays), also known as Shravan Somvar or Mondays of Shravan, with great devotion and dedication.
Sawan marks the beginning of the Chaturmas period, which is considered auspicious for undertaking spiritual practices like fasting, prayer, meditation, and other forms of austerity. Devotees believe that worshiping Lord Shiva during this month brings blessings, prosperity, and fulfillment of desires.
Significance of Sawan:
The month of Sawan holds immense significance in Hindu mythology and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. According to legend, Samudra Manthan (churning of the ocean) took place during this month, and Lord Shiva drank the poison (Halahala) that emerged during this churning to save the world. Hence, this act earned him the title of Neelkanth, meaning the one with a blue throat.
Rituals and Observances during Sawan:
During the month of Sawan, devotees undertake various rituals and observances to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva:
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Sawan Somvar Vrat: Devotees fast on all Mondays of Sawan to please Lord Shiva. They offer prayers, perform abhishekam (ritual bathing) of Shivling, and offer Bel Patra leaves, water, milk, and other holy items.
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Visiting Shiva Temples: Devotees visit prominent Shiva temples, especially the twelve Jyotirlingas, during this month to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva.
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Reciting Mantras: Chanting of Shiva mantras like Om Namah Shivaya and other hymns dedicated to Lord Shiva is considered highly auspicious during this month.
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Offerings and Worship: Devotees often offer bael leaves, milk, honey, curd, ghee, and water to Shivling as part of their worship.
Customs and Traditions:
Various customs and traditions are associated with the month of Sawan:
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Wearing of Green: Green is considered an auspicious color during Sawan, and many devotees wear green clothes and accessories.
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Abstaining from Non-Vegetarian Food: Many people choose to abstain from non-vegetarian food during this month as a mark of respect and purity.
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Community Celebrations: In several parts of India, communities organize processions, fairs, and cultural events during the month of Sawan to celebrate the glory of Lord Shiva.
Importance of Sawan Somvar Vrat:
Observing the Sawan Somvar Vrat is believed to bestow numerous benefits on devotees:
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Fulfillment of Desires: It is believed that sincere observance of the Sawan Somvar Vrat leads to the fulfillment of desires and wishes.
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Blessings of Lord Shiva: By pleasing Lord Shiva through dedicated fasting and prayers, devotees seek his blessings for health, prosperity, and well-being.
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Removal of Obstacles: It is said that observing this fast helps in overcoming obstacles and challenges in life.
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Purification of Mind and Body: Fasting during Sawan is believed to purify the mind, body, and soul of the devotees.
FAQs about Sawan:
Q1. What is the significance of Sawan?
A1. Sawan is considered an auspicious month dedicated to Lord Shiva, where devotees observe fasts, offer prayers, and seek his blessings.
Q2. Why is Sawan Somvar Vrat important?
A2. Sawan Somvar Vrat is important as devotees believe that fasting on Mondays of Shravan brings them closer to Lord Shiva and helps in fulfilling their desires.
Q3. What are the common rituals observed during Sawan?
A3. Common rituals during Sawan include fasting, visiting Shiva temples, offering prayers, chanting mantras, and conducting rituals like abhishekam.
Q4. What is the significance of wearing green during Sawan?
A4. Green is considered an auspicious color during Sawan as it symbolizes growth, harmony, and prosperity. Wearing green is believed to attract positive energy and blessings.
Q5. Can non-vegetarian food be consumed during Sawan?
A5. Many people choose to abstain from non-vegetarian food during Sawan as a mark of respect for Lord Shiva and to maintain purity during this auspicious month.
In conclusion, the month of Sawan holds immense spiritual significance for devotees of Lord Shiva, who observe various rituals and fasts with reverence and devotion. By following the traditions associated with Sawan Somvar Vrat and engaging in acts of worship and austerity, devotees seek the blessings and grace of Lord Shiva for a fulfilling and prosperous life.