Every year, millions of devotees across India observe the holy month of Shravan (Sawan) with deep devotion, especially on Mondays, which are considered the most auspicious days for the worship of Lord Shiva. These Mondays, known as Shravan Somwar, are not just about fasting—they are about faith, transformation, and divine connection.
🌿 Why is the Month of Shravan So Special?
According to the Hindu calendar, the month of Shravan (usually falling between July and August) is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is believed that during this time, the cosmic energy aligns in such a way that devotion to Shiva is magnified, and his blessings are more accessible to his devotees.
The importance of Shravan is deeply rooted in ancient scriptures and mythology, particularly in the legend of Samudra Manthan (the Churning of the Ocean).
🔱 The Legend of Samudra Manthan & the Emergence of Shravan Somwar
As per the Shiv Puran, once the Devas (gods) and Asuras (demons) decided to churn the ocean to obtain Amrit (nectar of immortality). This event, known as Samudra Manthan, brought forth many divine and dangerous elements.
Among them was Halahala, a deadly poison that threatened to destroy the universe. No one could withstand its power—except Lord Shiva.
To save creation, Shiva drank the poison and held it in his throat, turning it blue and earning the name Neelkanth. The act left him in deep pain. To cool his body, devotees offered water, milk, and Bel Patra on the Shivling.
This act of divine sacrifice is commemorated during Shravan, with Mondays (Somwar) being especially sacred because Som (Moon) resides on Shiva’s head and is said to influence his calm and benevolent nature.
🙏 Significance of Observing Shravan Somwar Vrat
The Shravan Somwar Vrat (fast) is observed by devotees seeking:
- Spiritual growth and inner peace
- Fulfillment of wishes and removal of obstacles
- Good health, marriage prospects, and family well-being
Many unmarried girls observe this vrat to seek an ideal husband, just like Goddess Parvati, who performed intense tapasya to win Lord Shiva as her consort.
🕉️ How is the Vrat Observed?
- Fasting from sunrise to sunset (some have fruits/milk, others do nirjal/strict fasting)
- Offering water/milk to the Shivling
- Chanting “Om Namah Shivaya” or Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra
- Visiting Shiva temples and performing Abhishek
- Consuming sattvik food after evening prayers
🌸 The Deeper Message of Shravan Somwar
More than rituals, Shravan Somwar reminds us of:
- The power of sacrifice (as shown by Shiva)
- The beauty of devotion (as shown by Parvati)
- The balance of strength and calm in facing life’s challenges
In a world that moves fast, Shravan offers a pause—to reconnect, reflect, and realign with higher purpose.
