Sawan 2024: Dates, somwar calendar, significance and rituals practised during Sawan

Sawan, also known as Shravan, is one of the most auspicious months in the Hindu calendar. According to Drik Panchang, in 2024, Sawan begins on July 22 and ends on August 19. This year, Sawan will be observed for 29 days, featuring five Mondays, known as Sawan Somwars. These Mondays are particularly significant for devotees who observe fasts and engage in prayers dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Significance of Sawan Month

Shravan is considered the holiest month in the Hindu calendar and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is believed that during this time, the cosmic alignment is such that divine energies are more accessible, and prayers reach the divine with greater potency. Devotees undertake various spiritual practices, including fasting, offering prayers, and performing rituals to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva. The observance of Shravan Somwar, or fasting on Mondays, holds special significance as Mondays are considered sacred to Lord Shiva.

Sawan Somwar Calendar 2024

In 2024, the Sawan month will feature five Mondays, each marking a special occasion for devotees to observe fasts and participate in rituals. Here is the detailed Sawan Somwar calendar:
July 22, 2024 - Sawan Begins (First Shravan Somwar vrat)
July 29, 2024 - Second Shravan Somwar vrat
August 5, 2024 - Third Shravan Somwar vrat
August 12, 2024 - Fourth Shravan Somwar vrat
August 19, 2024 - Sawan Ends (Last or Fifth Shravan Somwar vrat)

Historical and Mythological Significance of Sawan

The month of Shravan is steeped in mythology and historical significance. According to Hindu scriptures, several important events are believed to have occurred during this month:

Samudra Manthan: One of the most famous legends associated with Shravan is the churning of the ocean, or Samudra Manthan, by the Devas and Asuras to obtain Amrit (the nectar of immortality). During this process, a deadly poison called Halahala emerged, which had the potential to destroy the universe. Lord Shiva consumed the poison to save the world, and it turned his throat blue, earning him the name Neelkanth. This act of selflessness is commemorated during the month of Shravan.

Marriage of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati: Another significant event celebrated during Shravan is the divine marriage of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. According to mythology, Goddess Parvati undertook severe penance during Shravan to win the love and affection of Lord Shiva. Pleased with her devotion, Lord Shiva accepted her as his consort, and devotees celebrate their union this month. That’s why it is considered very auspicious to undertake fasting every Monday of the month.

Kanwar Yatra: The Kanwar Yatra is a significant pilgrimage undertaken by devotees, known as Kanwariyas, who carry water from the holy Ganges River to offer it to Shiva temples. This ritual is performed as an act of devotion and penance.

Rituals practised during Sawan

Devotees observe various rituals and practices during the month of Shravan to seek blessings from Lord Shiva:
Fasting: Observing fasts on Sawan Somwars is a common practice. Devotees often consume only water or fruits and avoid consuming grains and cereals.
Abhishekam: Performing Abhishekam, or the ceremonial bathing of Shiva Lingam with water, milk, honey, and other sacred substances, is a significant ritual. It is believed that offering Abhishekam pleases Lord Shiva and grants his blessings.
Chanting and Prayers: Devotees chant mantras and prayers dedicated to Lord Shiva, such as the Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra and the Shiva Chalisa. Participating in Shiva Aarti (devotional song) is also common.
Visiting Shiva Temples: Visiting Shiva temples and offering prayers is an integral part of Shravan observance. Many devotees undertake pilgrimages to prominent Shiva temples during this month.

Puja Vidhi

Devotees who are fasting on Sawan Somwar (Sawan Monday) should wake up early, take a bath, and put on clean, new clothes. Afterwards, they should clean their home and the temple or puja room. The worship of the Shivlinga can be done either by visiting a temple or performing the ritual at home. This involves performing Abhishekam (ritual bathing) of the Shivlinga, applying white sandalwood to Lord Shiva, and offering bhang, dhatura, and bilvapatra (leaves). They should then light a ghee lamp or diya, listen to the story about the Sawan Somwar fast, and perform aarti (a devotional song) for Lord Shiva and Maa Parvati. It is important to perform the puja both in the morning and in the evening.

Mantras you chant during Sawan

1. Om Tryambakam Yajamahe Sugandhim Pushti Vardhanam Urvarukamiva Bandhanan Mrityor Mukshiya Maamritat
2. Om Namah Shivay
3. Om Namah Parvati Pataye Har Har Mahadev

The month of Shravan, or Sawan, holds immense significance in Hinduism as a period of intense devotion and spiritual practices dedicated to Lord Shiva. The observance of Sawan Somwars, fasting, and performing rituals are ways through which devotees seek the divine blessings of Lord Shiva. In 2024, with Sawan beginning on July 22 and ending on August 19, devotees have a special opportunity to deepen their spiritual connection and experience the divine grace of Lord Shiva.

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