BhaktiLoopFirst Sawan Monday
Varies each year, typically in July or early August. It is the first Monday of the Hindu calendar month of Shraavana.
Significance
The first Monday of the auspicious Shraavana (Sawan) month is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Devotees observe fasts and perform special prayers and rituals to seek Lord Shiva's blessings for prosperity, happiness, good health, marital bliss, and fulfillment of desires.
Associated Deities
Key Rituals & Practices
- Observing a fast (Sawan Somwar Vrat) – devotees may observe a full fast (Nirjala, without water) or a partial fast (Phalahari, consuming only fruits and milk).
- Visiting Shiva temples early in the morning.
- Performing Abhishek (ritual bathing) of the Shiva Lingam with water (often Gangajal), milk, curd, ghee, honey, and sugarcane juice.
- Offering Bilva leaves (Bael Patra), Dhatura, flowers (especially white), sandalwood paste, Bhaang, and Prasad to Lord Shiva.
- Chanting 'Om Namah Shivaya' and the Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra.
- Listening to Sawan Somwar Vrat Katha (stories related to the fast).
- Wearing green clothes, which are considered auspicious in Sawan.
- Many Kanwariyas begin their pilgrimage or perform early rituals during the first Sawan Monday.
Hindu Calendar Details
Month:
Shraavana (Sawan)
Paksha:
Varies (can fall in either Krishna Paksha or Shukla Paksha depending on the start of Sawan)
Tithi:
Varies, it is the first Monday that falls within the Shraavana month.
Historical & Mythological Context
The month of Shraavana is considered Lord Shiva's favorite month. According to mythology, during the Samudra Manthan (churning of the ocean), Lord Shiva consumed the deadly poison Halahala to save the universe, turning his throat blue (Nilkanth). The Devas then offered him water from the Ganga to soothe him. Observing fasts and worshipping Shiva in Shraavana, especially on Mondays, is believed to appease him and receive his divine blessings. Mondays are inherently dedicated to Lord Shiva.