India
The first day of Sawan is July 22 and will end on August 19. This means Sawan will be observed for 29 days.
Updated : Jul 22, 2024, 06:49 AM IST
Sawan, also called Sravana or Shravan, is one of the most auspicious months in the Hindu calendar. Hindus hold great significance for the month-long celebration of Shrawan Maas, especially for those who worship Shiva. It bears Lord Shiva's dedication. Millions of Hindus celebrate Shravan Maas, a time of fasting, celebration, and spiritual devotion, both in India and beyond. Sawan is traditionally honoured in July and August when India's monsoon season officially begins. Rain is regarded as a sign of the revival of life and a blessing from Lord Shiva.
Puja mahurat:
During the month of Sawan, the Shubh Muhurat, or auspicious time, is particularly significant for performing religious rituals and prayers. As per Drik Panchang, Sawan Purnima falls on Monday, August 19. The Abhijeet Muhurat is scheduled to take place from 12:04 pm to 12:55 pm on July 22, and the Shravana Nakshatra is said to be observed at 10:21 pm on July 22. Meanwhile, the Pratipada tithi will last up to 1:11 pm.
Sawan Somvar Vrat: Every Monday during Sawan, devotees observe a fast and offer prayers to Lord Shiva with bel leaves, milk, and honey. The fast is believed to bring blessings and fulfill wishes.
Rudrabhishek: The Shiva Linga is bathed in water, milk, curd, honey, and ghee during this special ritual. The ceremony is made more spiritually significant by the recitation of Vedic mantras.
Kavadi Yatra: Devotees travel great distances with a decorated structure called Kavadi. They travel to temples to offer their prayers and seek blessings from Lord Shiva.
Kanwar Yatra: This is a major pilgrimage when followers of Lord Shiva, called Kanwariyas, bring water from the Ganges River to temples, especially in Sultanganj, Haridwar, and Gaumukh.
Shravan Puja: Daily prayers and special pujas are conducted in houses and temples. Rudrashtakam, the Shiva Chalisa, and other hymns honouring Lord Shiva are chanted by devotees.