Introduction:
- In the grand tapestry of Hindu culture and tradition, few months hold as much significance and reverence as Shravan. Revered as the holiest month in the Hindu calendar, Shravan, also known as Sawan, is a time of devout observance, spiritual reflection, and fervent devotion. In this comprehensive exploration, we delve into the origins, rituals, and profound significance of Shravan month, encapsulating its essence through the lenses of its start/end date, story, puja vidhi, and overall importance.
When will Saavan start in 2024 (Start/End Date):
This year the month of Sawan is starting from Monday, 22 July 2024. It will end on Monday, August 19, 2024.
- Shravan, typically falling between July and August in the Gregorian calendar, marks the beginning of the Chaturmas, the auspicious four-month period in the Hindu lunar calendar. This sacred month commences with the appearance of the new moon, known as Amavasya, and concludes with the appearance of the full moon, Purnima. The entire duration of Shravan is filled with spiritual significance, with each Monday (Somvar) of this month considered exceptionally auspicious, known as Sawan Somwar.
Sawan Somwar/Shravan Somvar in 2024:
- Monday, July 22
- Monday, July 29
- Monday, August 5
- Monday, August 12
- Monday, August 19
Savan/Shravan Somvar Vrat Story:
- A moneylender lived in a city. There was no shortage of money in his house but he had no children, which made him very sad. Wishing to have a son, he used to fast for Lord Shiva every Monday and worship Lord Shiva and Parvati in the Shiva temple with full devotion. Seeing his devotion, Mother Parvati was pleased and requested Lord Shiva to fulfill the wish of the moneylender. Hearing Parvati's wish, Lord Shiva said, "O Parvati, every living being in this world gets the result according to his deeds and has to suffer whatever happens in his destiny." But Parvati ji expressed her desire to fulfill the wish of the moneylender to maintain his faith. On the request of Mother Parvati, Lord Shiva blessed the moneylender and said that his child would have a short life. She will be able to live only till 16 years. During this time the moneylender was listening to all these talks of Mother Parvati and Lord Shiva. Even after this he continued worshiping Shiva as before. After some time, a son was born in the moneylender's house. When the child turned eleven years old, he was sent to Kashi to study. The moneylender called the son's maternal uncle and gave him a lot of money and said that he should take this child to acquire Kashi Vidya and perform a Yagya on the way. Wherever you perform Yagya, go there by providing food to the Brahmins and giving them Dakshina. Following his father's orders, the moneylender's son and his maternal uncle go towards Kashi, performing a yagya and giving donations to the Brahmins on the way. On this by-passage, a king's daughter was getting married. The prince who was getting married to the princess was one-eyed. The king was not aware of this. The prince took advantage of this and made the moneylender's son the groom in his place. But the moneylender's son was honest. She took advantage of the opportunity and wrote on the princess's scarf that "You are married to me but the prince with whom you will be sent is a one-eyed man. I am going to Kashi to study." When the princess read the words written on the chunni, she told this to her parents. The king did not leave his daughter except the wedding procession. On the other hand, the moneylender's son and his maternal uncle reached Kashi and performed a yagya there. On the boy's coming of age day when he was 16 years old, a yagya was performed. The boy told his maternal uncle that he was not well. Uncle said you go inside and sleep. As per the boon of Shiva, the child died within a few moments. Seeing his dead nephew his uncle started mourning. Coincidentally, at the same time Shiva and Mother Parvati were leaving from there. Parvati said to God – Prannath, I cannot bear his call. You have to relieve this person's suffering. When Lord Shiva reached the dead boy, he said that he was the son of the same moneylender to whom I had given a boon at the age of 12. Now its age is over. But Mother Parvati said, O Mahadev, please give more life to this child, otherwise his parents will also die. On Shiva's request, Lord Shiva granted the boy the boon of survival. By the grace of Shiva the child came alive. After completing his education, when the boy was returning to his city with his maternal uncle, both of them reached the same city where he was married to the princess. He organized a yagya in that city also. The king of that city immediately recognized him. After the yagya was over, the king brought the merchant's son and his maternal uncle to the palace, gave them a lot of money and clothes and sent them off with the princess. As soon as the boy's maternal uncle reached the city, he sent a messenger home informing him of his arrival. The businessman was very happy with the news of his son returning alive. The businessman and his wife had locked themselves in a room. Both of them were waiting for their son, hungry and thirsty. They had vowed that if they got the news of their son's death, both of them would sacrifice their lives. The businessman reached the city gate with his wife. There was no limit to his happiness after hearing the news of his son being alive and getting married. That very night, Lord Shiva appeared in the businessman's dream and said - 'O Shresthi! Pleased by your fasting on Mondays and listening to the story of your fast, I have granted a long life to your son.' Hearing this, the businessman was very happy.
Things to Do in Shravan Maas:
Here are some ideal activities to do during the month of Shravan:
- Visit Shiv Temples: Embarking on a pilgrimage to Shiva temples during Shravan is a significant activity. Participating in grand celebrations and performing puja at these religious sites fosters a deeper connection with Lord Shiva.
- Participate in Abhishekam: Engaging in the ritualistic bathing of the Shiva Lingam during Shravan is a great way to establish your spiritual and religious practices.
- Observe Fasts: Observing fasts, especially on Mondays (Sawan Somvar), is a prominent religious practice during Shravan. Fasting enhances devotion and dedication to Lord Shiva.
- Take a Dip in Holy Rivers: Bathing in sacred rivers during Shravan is a symbolic act of purity and spirituality. Participating in this activity enhances one's spiritual merit and purifies the soul.
- Read Religious Texts: Reading religious scriptures during Shravan and listening to the stories of Lord Shiva can uplift one's spiritual journey and provide divine inspiration.
- Attend Sawan Music Events: Many musical events featuring devotional songs, bhajans, and spiritual music are organized during Shravan. Attending these events can be a soul-stirring experience.
- Indulge in Sawan Delicacies: Enjoying special delicacies associated with Shravan, such as kachche paneer, thandai, malpua, etc., is a cherished tradition during this month.
- Service and Charity: Engaging in acts of service and charity during Shravan is a noble practice that demonstrates compassion and selflessness towards society and its people.
By embracing these activities, you can experience the religious and cultural significance of the month of Shravan and progress further on your spiritual journey.
Puja Vidhi:
- Observing rituals and performing puja during Shravan holds immense significance for devotees seeking spiritual elevation and divine blessings. The puja vidhi during this month is meticulous and varies across regions, yet certain practices remain central to the observance of Shravan.
- Devotees often embark on pilgrimages to sacred rivers, temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, or perform special rituals at home. The most common ritual involves the Abhishekam (ritual bathing) of Shiva Lingam with water, milk, honey, yogurt, ghee, and other sacred substances. Offerings of Bilva leaves, also known as Bel Patra, are made to Lord Shiva, symbolizing purity and devotion.
- Fasting holds a prominent place during Shravan, particularly on Mondays (Sawan Somvar), when devotees abstain from consuming food and offer prayers to Lord Shiva. Some devotees observe the stringent fast of "Sawan Somvar Vrat," abstaining from food and water for the entire day, seeking the benevolence of Lord Shiva.
Significance of Shravan Month:
Shravan holds multifaceted significance, weaving together elements of mythology, spirituality, and cultural practices that enrich the lives of millions of devotees.
- Spiritual Purification: The observance of rituals and fasting during Shravan is believed to purify the mind, body, and soul. Devotees seek forgiveness for past sins and strive for spiritual elevation through acts of devotion and penance.
- Lord Shiva's Blessings: Shravan is intrinsically linked with Lord Shiva, the supreme deity of destruction and regeneration in Hinduism. Devotees believe that sincere prayers and offerings made during this month evoke the benevolence of Lord Shiva, granting them protection, prosperity, and liberation from the cycle of birth and death.
- Cultural Reverence: Shravan fosters a sense of community and cultural cohesion among Hindus worldwide. From grand festivities at temples to intimate family rituals at home, the observance of Shravan strengthens familial bonds and reinforces cultural heritage.
- Seasonal Significance: The timing of Shravan coincides with the monsoon season in India, symbolizing the rejuvenation of nature and the life-giving properties of water. The monsoon rains, vital for agricultural prosperity, are revered as a divine blessing during this auspicious month.
Conclusion:
- In the kaleidoscope of Hindu festivals and observances, Shravan shines as a beacon of spirituality, devotion, and cultural richness. Its start/end date, enriched story, meticulous puja vidhi, and profound significance encapsulate the essence of Hinduism's deep-rooted traditions and timeless wisdom. As devotees immerse themselves in the sacred rituals and fervent prayers of Shravan, they are reminded of the eternal bond between the mortal and the divine, seeking solace and spiritual fulfillment in the embrace of Lord Shiva's grace.
FAQs:
When Shravan will start in 2024?
- This year the month of Sawan is starting from Monday, 22 July 2024. It will end on Monday, August 19, 2024.
What are the rules for Shravan month?
- During Shravan, devotees seek Lord Shiva's blessings by visiting temples and participating in rituals like Abhishekam. Fasting on Mondays, abstaining from alcohol and tobacco, and maintaining celibacy are essential practices. Additionally, avoiding certain foods like milk, leafy vegetables, onions, garlic, and meat is advised. These observances help in deepening spiritual connection and showing reverence to Lord Shiva.
Which God is in Shravan month?
- Shravan, the month of Lord Shiva, is here, and it's filled with Shiv Tattvas, the essence of Shiva. It's our chance to seek special blessings from Lord Shiva.
Can we start 16 Somvar in any month?
- During Shravan, some people observe the Solah Somwar Vrat, fasting on sixteen consecutive Mondays. Additionally, Tuesdays in the Sawan month are dedicated to Goddess Mangala Gauri, and devotees seek blessings by fasting in honor of Goddess Parvati.
Why fasting in Shravan month?
- Shravan is revered as an auspicious month devoted to Lord Shiva. Fasting during this period is believed to please Lord Shiva and invite blessings into one's life. It's also viewed as a means to purify the body and mind, facilitating a deeper connection with one's spiritual essence.
Which pooja is done in Shravan month?
- During the month of Shravan, the sacred Rudra Puja, also known as Rudrabhishek, is performed, aiding our inward journey. As millions turn to Shiva, the ultimate Truth and beauty, the earth is showered with blessings in this auspicious month.
Which God is Sawan dedicated to?
- The month of Sawan is devoted to Lord Shiva and his consort, Goddess Parvati. Various fasts and festivals are celebrated during this time to honor them and seek their blessings.
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