Auspicious "Sawan" in Hindu calendar and it's importance in India

Shravan Mondays hold special significance as the entire month is dedicated to the worship of Lord Shiva. This year, Shravan begins on July 22, 2024, and ends on August 19, 2024. Shravan, the fifth month in the Hindu calendar, is considered dear to Lord Shiva. According to religious beliefs, Lord Shiva resides on earth during the entire month of Shravan, and thus, worshipping and performing Jalabhishek (water offering) to him during this period fulfills all desires.

Start of Shravan Mondays in 2024:

2024, the Shravan Monday observances begin on Monday, July 22, and conclude on Monday, August 19. This year, there will be five Mondays and four Mangala Gauri fasts in the month of Shravan.

Importance of Shravan Mondays:

On Shravan Mondays, devotees worship Lord Shiva, making this month highly auspicious. Unmarried girls who observe this fast are believed to be blessed with a desirable life partner, while married women who keep this fast pray for the longevity of their husbands. Lord Shiva is also known as Somnath or Someshwar, and Monday is associated with the moon, as 'Som' means moon. Devotees observe the 16 Monday fasts during this month with great devotion and dedication. It is believed that Lord Shiva, residing on earth, removes the sufferings and troubles of his devotees. Sage Markandeya is said to have performed penance during the month of Shravan and received Lord Shiva's blessings for a long life.

Rituals for Shravan Monday Worship:

1. This day by waking up early and taking a bath.
2. Remember Lord Shiva and light a ghee lamp.
3. Visit a temple and offer prayers to Lord Shiva.
4. Perform Jalabhishek and Panchamrit Abhishek (offering of five sacred items).
5. Present Bel Patra (Bael leaves), Bhang, Dhatura, garlands of red or white flowers, fruits, and sweets.
6. Recite the Mahamrityunjaya Mantra or Panchakshara Mantra.
7. Light a ghee lamp again and perform Aarti.

Devotees who worship with sincere devotion and follow the rituals receive desired blessings. It is recommended to wear white clothes, apply a tilak of white sandalwood, and donate white garments, as this holds great significance. The fast should be concluded with the fulfillment of the vows taken.

Shravan Monday Dates in 2024:

1. First Shravan Monday Fast: July 22
2. Second Shravan Monday Fast: July 29
3. Third Shravan Monday Fast: August 5
4. Fourth Shravan Monday Fast: August 12
5. Fifth Shravan Monday Fast: August 19