BhaktiLoopFourth Sawan Monday Vrat
Observed to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati for a blissful married life, prosperity, good health, success, and the fulfillment of desires. Each Sawan Monday is considered highly auspicious for Shiva worship.
Key Rituals & Practices
Observe a strict fast (Nirjala Vrat - without water, or Phalahari Vrat - with fruits/milk) from sunrise to sunset.
Perform 'Abhishekam' (ritual bathing) of the Shivling with water, milk, curd, ghee, honey, and gangajal (holy Ganges water).
Offerings to Lord Shiva: Bilva Patra (Bael leaves), Datura (thorn apple), Akshat (rice grains), Chandan (sandalwood paste), flowers (especially white), fruits, sweets, Bhang (cannabis leaves - offered to Shiva, not consumed by devotees).
Chanting of 'Om Namah Shivaya', 'Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra', and other Shiva mantras.
Visiting Shiva temples and performing puja with devotion.
Recitation or listening to the 'Sawan Somwar Vrat Katha' (story of the fast).
Observing Brahmacharya (celibacy) for the day.
Breaking the fast after sunset, often after consuming Satvik food (vegetarian, non-spicy, without onion and garlic).
Associated Deities
Hindu Calendar Details
Hindu Month
Sawan (Shravan) Maas
Paksha
Varies, typically falls in Krishna Paksha or Shukla Paksha depending on the start of Sawan and the specific Monday.
Tithi
Varies
Regional Relevance & Variations
undefined
undefined
undefined
undefined
Historical & Mythological Context
The month of Sawan (Shravan) is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is believed that during this month, Lord Shiva consumed the 'Halahala' poison that emerged from the Samudra Manthan (churning of the ocean), saving the universe. To soothe the burning effect of the poison, devotees offer water to Him. Goddess Parvati also performed severe penance during the month of S Sawan to get Lord Shiva as her husband. Observing fasts on Sawan Mondays is believed to please both Shiva and Parvati, leading to their blessings.
Alternative Names
Gregorian Date
Varies each year; e.g., August 5, 2024