In Sanatan Dharma, the month of Shravan (the Shravan Maas) holds a special place of reverence and spiritual significance. This holy period, which typically falls between July and August (as per English calendar), is dedicated to Lord Shiva, the Supreme deity of protection, transformation and destruction. This year, Shravan Maas starts on 22nd July 2024 and culminates on 19th August 2024.
The fifth month of Hindu calendar (Panchaang), called the “Sawan ” or “Shravan ” month, is celebrated with great devotion and fervor by millions of devotees across India and World. This is the first month of the Chaturmaas (Shravan सावन, Bhadrapad भाद्रपद, Ashwin आश्विन and Kartik कार्तिक).
Let us explore the significance, the story behind, the rituals, do’s and don’ts and other things associated with this auspicious time. This Shravan month is of great spiritual significance, profound devotion, and self-reflection in our Sanatan Dharma.
Spiritual significance and importance of Shravan Month
Why is Shravan(Sawan) Month the holiest month in the Hindu Culture?
Shravan month is considered as one of the most auspicious times of the year for devotees of Lord Shiva. It is believed that during this period, Lord Shiva showers his divine blessings on his devotees, granting them strength, prosperity, and spiritual growth. The month derives its name from the Shravan Nakshatra (constellation), which aligns with the full moon during this time.
Shravan month is a sacred and spiritually charged period in the Hindu calendar. It serves as a reminder of the importance of devotion, self-reflection, and inner transformation in our lives. Through fasting, rituals, chanting, and acts of piety, devotees seek to connect with the divine energy of Lord Shiva and experience spiritual growth.
As devotees immerse themselves in the serenity of Shravan month, they strive to awaken their spiritual potential and cultivate a deeper connection with the divine.
What is the story of Shravan Month?
There are many stories which have ancient significance for the shravan month and different meanings. All have some message hidden behind them which one can learn from for a better life.
Shravan Month Story 1
As per the ancient story, the daughter of King Daksha (Sati) had sacrificed her life and was reborn as Parvati in the home of Himalaya King. Devi Parvati wanted to marry Lord Shiva and for that reason she performed penance during Shravan month. Lord Shiva was pleased with the devotion of Parvati and fulfilled her wish.
The Shravan month is liked by Lord Shiva as he got reunited with Devi Parvati during this period. Shravan month begins in July and ends in August, as per Hindu Calendar & Panchang.
This is the reason many unmarried girls also observe fasting on Shravan Mondays (Shravan Somvar Vrat) for a happy and successful married life.
Shravan Month Story 2
In Hindu culture, the ‘Samudra Manthan’ holds immense significance and spiritual meaning. It was performed during the Shravan Month. Out of the fourteen elements which emerged from the ocean during the Samudra Manthan, one was the ‘Halahal’ poison. No one came forward to take it, neither Devas nor Asuras.
Only Lord Shiva came forward and consumed the deadly poison to save the world. As he held this poison in his throat, he came to be known as Neelkantha. His throat turned blue due to the deadly venom. That’s why he is called Neelkantha, the one with a blue throat.
The poison had such a severe impact on Lord Shiva that he wore a crescent moon on his head, and all the gods began pouring water from the holy Ganges over him to counter the effects of the poison.
The Shiva Puja during Shravan Month is gratitude to Lord Shiva who always protects his devotees from all kinds of dangers and diseases and blesses them with good health and fortune.
Shravan Month Story 3
Another popular story about the Shravan month is about Lord Vishnu going to sleep for four months. On Devshayani Ekadashi, he goes to sleep and on Dev Uthani Ekadashi he wakes up from the sleep.
The story goes like this. On being happy with King Bali for his charity and selflessness when Lord Vishnu tested him through his Vamana Avatar, Lord Vishnu promised to reside forever in ‘Patala’ – the underground world of King Bali.
Laxmiji, Lord Vishnu’s wife became unhappy when she heard of this. Distressed, she approached Lord Shiva and Lord Brahma. They consoled her and promised that they would spend four months of the year in Patala each in place of Lord Vishnu, thus freeing the Lord Vishnu for eight months.
These four months are the Chaturmas which starts with the month of Shravan. During this time, Lord Shiva takes command and keeps the universe in balance.
Rituals and activities during Shravan month
Devotees observe various rituals and perform acts of piety, seeking the Lord’s blessings and guidance. If you have questions about what to do during Shravan month, then this particular section is for you. Read on.
Recitation of Shiva Mantras
Devotees engage in the constant recitation of sacred mantras dedicated to Lord Shiva, such as the Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra and the Om Namah Shivaya mantra. Chanting these mantras is believed to invoke the divine energy of Lord Shiva and grant protection, healing, and liberation.
Importance of wearing Rudraksh in Shravan Month
Devotees of Lord Shiva consider it very auspicious to wear Rudraksha especially during the month of Shravan. Rudraksha is
Abhishekam
Special prayers and rituals are conducted in temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. Devotees perform “Abhishekam,” the ritual of bathing the Shiva Lingam with water, milk, honey, and other sacred substances. This act symbolizes the cleansing of impurities and the renewal of spiritual energy.
Offering Bilva Leaves and Fruits
Devotees offer Bilva leaves, considered sacred to Lord Shiva, along with fruits and flowers as a symbol of reverence and devotion. It is believed that even a simple offering made with utmost sincerity pleases the Lord and bestows blessings upon the devotee.
Shravan Month Fasting
Fasting holds immense significance during Shravan month. Many devotees observe “Sawan Somvar Vrat,” a fast held on Mondays throughout the month. They abstain from consuming food and water, engaging in deep meditation and chanting of Shiva mantras. It is believed that this practice purifies the mind, body, and soul, fostering a deeper connection with the divine energy of Lord Shiva.
Shravan Month is also considered important for fasting on other three highly auspicious days for Fasting during the Shravan Month.
The Shravan Mangalvar, or Tuesdays – Newly married girls, also perform the Mangala Gauri Vrata on Tuesdays during this Shravan month to avoid bad and negative omens
Shravan Shukrawar, or Fridays – Varalakshmi Vratam is observed by married ladies.
Shravan Shaniwar of Saturdays – Lord Vishnu also known as Lord Balaji or Lord Venkatesh is worshiped by devotees
Importance of fasting in Shravan Month on Shravan Monday (Somvar)
As per Hindu culture and texts, Monday is represented by the Moon (Chandrama). Chandrama symbolizes Mind. As the moon is placed on Lord Shiva’s head, Lord Shiva is believed to discipline the mind of the spiritual aspirant and the devotees.
This is the reason why Lord Shiva is worshiped specifically on Monday. If you worship Shiva Lingam on Shravan Monday, one can win his special blessings. Men, women and especially unmarried girls observe fasting on this day to please Lord Shiva, also called as Shravan Somvar Vrat.
Shravan Fasting Rules – What to eat during shravan fast?
During the Shravan fast, devotees abstain from consuming certain foods and follow a specific diet to maintain purity and observe religious practices. The dietary restrictions may vary depending on personal beliefs and regional customs, but here are some common foods that are typically consumed during the Shravan fast.
Fruits
Various fruits are widely consumed during the Shravan fast. Devotees often include bananas, apples, oranges, pomegranates, watermelons, and grapes in their diet. Fruits provide essential nutrients, vitamins, and natural sugars to keep energy levels up during the fasting period.
Sabudana (Tapioca Pearls)
Sabudana is a popular ingredient used in fasting recipes. It is often used to prepare dishes like Sabudana Khichdi (a dish made with tapioca pearls, spices, and peanuts) and Sabudana Kheer (a sweet pudding made with tapioca pearls, milk, and sugar).
Dahi (Yogurt or Curd)
Yogurt is a common food item consumed during fasting. It is versatile and can be eaten as is or used to make dishes like fruit yogurt, buttermilk, or lassi (a yogurt-based drink).
Samak Rice (Barnyard Millet)
Samak rice is a type of millet that is commonly consumed during fasting. It is used to make dishes like Samak Pulao or Samak Khichdi, which are seasoned with mild spices and usually include vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and peas.
Singhara (Water Chestnut) Flour
Singhara flour is a popular substitute for regular flour during the Shravan fast. It is used to make fasting-friendly snacks like Singhara paratha (flatbread) or Singhara puri.
Milk and Milk Products
Milk and milk-based products such as paneer (cottage cheese) and buttermilk are considered pure and are often included in the Shravan fast diet. They can be consumed as is or used to prepare various dishes.
Nuts and Dry Fruits
Nuts and dry fruits like almonds, cashews, raisins, and dates are nutritious options during fasting. They can be consumed as a snack or used in desserts and sweets.
Rock Salt
Regular table salt is usually avoided during the Shravan fast. Instead, rock salt (sendha namak) is used for seasoning dishes.
It’s important to note that fasting practices may vary among individuals and communities, and it’s advisable to consult your elders or religious authorities to understand specific dietary guidelines and restrictions for the Shravan fast based on personal beliefs and customs.
Kanwar Yatra During Shravan Month
One of the most prominent features of Shravan month is the Kanwar Yatra. Devotees, known as “Kanwariyas,” undertake a pilgrimage to sacred rivers and Shiva temples, carrying ornate pitchers filled with holy water (mainly from Mother Ganga River called as Ganga Jal).
The devotees walk long distances, often barefoot, chanting hymns and seeking Lord Shiva’s blessings.
During the Kanwar Yatra, devotees follow a set of rituals and observances. They observe fasting, abstinence, and practice celibacy during the pilgrimage. Many devotees engage in chanting bhajans (devotional songs), recite hymns dedicated to Lord Shiva, and perform Rudra Abhishekam (ritual bathing of the Shiva Lingam) at various temples en route.
The Kanwar Yatra fosters a sense of unity, solidarity, and camaraderie among the Kanwariyas. Many devotees travel in groups and it transcends barriers of caste, creed, and social status, emphasizing the universal bond of devotion.
Spiritual Significance of Kanwar Yatra
Kanwar yatra represents the sacred bond between Lord Shiva and his devotees. It symbolizes the journey of the soul, with the bamboo pole representing the backbone and the canister signifying the body. By carrying the Kanwar, devotees aim to absorb the divine energy of Lord Shiva.
Kanwar Yatra holds immense spiritual significance for devotees. It provides an opportunity to seek blessings, purify the mind, and deepen the connection with Lord Shiva. The journey is believed to bring inner transformation, spiritual growth, and liberation from worldly attachments.
Kanwar Yatra is a profound expression of devotion and an embodiment of the Hindu belief in the divine connection between the seeker and the divine.
Kanwar Yatra Start and End Date 2024 (Kanwar Yatra Kab Hai)
This year Kanwar Yatra will start on 22nd July 2024, Tuesday. Kanwar Yatra will end on 2nd August 2024, a Thursday.
Kanwar Yatra Route
The Kanwar Yatra, one of the largest religious pilgrimages in India, follows various routes depending on the starting point and the destination chosen by the devotees. Here are some popular routes taken during the Kanwar Yatra:
Haridwar Route
Haridwar, located in Uttarakhand, is one of the major starting points for the Kanwar Yatra. Devotees gather here to collect the holy water from the Ganges. From Haridwar, they embark on the journey to various temples in Uttarakhand and other states, including Kedarnath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri.
Rishikesh Route
Rishikesh, also in Uttarakhand, serves as a significant starting point for the Kanwar Yatra. Devotees begin their journey from Rishikesh, collecting water from the Ganges, and proceed towards holy shrines like Neelkanth Mahadev Temple and other Shiva temples in the region.
Sultanganj Route
Sultanganj, located in Bihar, is another important starting point for the Kanwar Yatra. Devotees collect water from the Ganges at Sultanganj and carry it in their Kanwars. They travel through various districts of Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, covering towns and cities like Bhagalpur, Munger, Muzaffarpur, and Varanasi.
Deoghar Route
Deoghar in Jharkhand is a significant destination for the Kanwar Yatra. Devotees gather here and then proceed towards the Baidyanath Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas (divine representations of Lord Shiva). The Kanwariyas trek long distances to reach the temple, often passing through places like Dumka, Godda, and Dhanbad.
Prayagraj (Allahabad) Route
Prayagraj (Allahabad), located in Uttar Pradesh, is an important city associated with the Kanwar Yatra. Devotees collect water from the confluence (Sangam) of the Ganges, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers known as Triveni Sangam. They then undertake the Yatra, visiting various Shiva temples in Allahabad and nearby regions.
It is important to note that the routes may vary each year, and devotees have the freedom to choose their preferred starting point and destination. The Kanwar Yatra is a widespread pilgrimage, and the routes mentioned here represent some of the most popular ones. The Yatra attracts millions of devotees from different parts of India, each with their own unique journey and path to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva.
Spiritual Discourses and Satsangs During Shravan Month
Many temples and spiritual organizations organize discourses, satsangs (spiritual gatherings), and lectures during Shravan month. Eminent spiritual leaders (Gurus, Yogis, Mahants, Acharyas) and scholars share insights into the significance of Lord Shiva and teachings from the ancient Hindu scriptures. These gatherings provide an opportunity for devotees to deepen their understanding of spiritual principles and gain inspiration on their spiritual journey within.
What not to do during Shravan Month?
During the Shravan month, one should follow the sattvic lifestyle (Sattvic Ahaar, Vihaar and Vichaar). Below are a few things which are considered inauspicious during the month of Shravan and devotees abstain from doing so.
- Avoiding alcohol consumption and non vegetarian food
- No shave (do not shave) during Shravan
- Avoid consumption of Ginger, garlic and onion
- According to the certain Puranas, eating brinjals should also be avoided
- One can offer milk on the Shiv Lingam in Shravan Month, but devotees, who are observing a fast, should not drink milk during this month
- Shiv Puja or Abhishekam of Shiva idol or Shiva Lingam should be performed in the morning only
Inauspicious Things In Worshiping Lord Shiva
There are certain things which are considered inauspicious and should not be used when worshiping Lord Shiva.
Sindur or Kumkum
As per Hindu scriptures, Kumkum or Roli should not be used on the Shivling. Lord Shiva represents renunciation and destruction, so it’s not appropriate to worship him with Kumkum or Roli. Rather, we can use sandalwood paste.
Tulsi
In general, Tulsi is considered very auspicious in Puja as per Hindu texts. But offering Tulsi to Lord Shiva is prohibited. It is believed that Lord Shiva had killed the husband of Tulsi, demon Jaalandhar. That is why, Tulsi is not offered on Lord Shiva’s idol or Shiva Lingam. There is another ancient story which tells that Lord Vishnu accepted Tulsi as his wife. So, that is also another reason why Tulsi leaves are not offered to Lord Shiva.
Shankh (Conch shell)
There was a demon called Shankhchood whom Lord Shiva killed. Shankh is the symbol of that demon. That is why it is not advised to offer water to Lord Shiva in a Shankh.
Festivals during Shravan Month (Maas)
There are various significant Hindu festivals which come in the month of Shravan and are celebrated with much devotion and vigor.
Rakshabandhan
This is the day you pray for your brother’s safety by tying the Rakhi (thread), and he, in turn, offers to protect you.
Jandhyam/Janai Purnima
This is the day Upakarma – changing of the sacred thread – is done.
Hayagriva Jayanthi
The horse-headed avatar of Lord Vishnu is worshiped for His wisdom.
Pavitropana
People of Gujarat celebrate by worshiping Lord Shiva.
Balaram Jayanthi
This is the day Lord Krishna’s beloved elder brother, Balaram, was born.
Amarnath Yatra
This journey normally ends on this day according to the Puranas; it starts on Guru Purnima Day.
Krishna Janmashtami
The birth of Lord Krishna is also celebrated with great festivities during Shravan Maas.
Onam
This day marks the homecoming of King Mahabali that occurs under the Shraavana star.
Garuda/ Nag Panchami
On this day, people worship the Nag (snake) and Garuda (the eagle), acknowledging that these two traditional rivals, though different, are immensely useful
Conclusion
Shravan month holds a sacred place in the hearts of millions of Hindus worldwide. It is a time of deep devotion, introspection, and spiritual growth. By observing fasts, performing rituals, and engaging in acts of piety, devotees seek to purify their souls, deepen their connection with Lord Shiva, and experience spiritual transformation. Shravan month serves as a reminder of the eternal power of faith and devotion and highlights the importance of embracing spirituality in our lives.
Let’s all have an awesome time during this auspicious month of Shravan in 2024. May Lord Shiva blesses you with his grace and give speed to your spiritual journey.
Do share in comments section how you are spending your time during the month of Shravan this year in 2024.
Thanks for sharing information about Sawan maas in such detail. Har Har Mahadev!!!
Thanks Naresh