On the final Monday of the holy month of Shravan, devotees across India flocked to Shiva temples to offer prayers and seek blessings. In Gujarat, the historic Somnath Temple in Bilimora saw long queues of worshippers, including both Hindus and Muslims, who came together in devotion. This ancient temple, over 1,600 years old, is renowned for its ‘Swayambhu’ (self-manifested) Shivling, making it a significant religious site, particularly during Shravan. People from various regions travel to participate in the rituals and fairs held here, contributing to the temple’s spiritual vibrancy.
In Madhya Pradesh, the Mahakaleshwar Temple in Ujjain also attracted a large crowd of devotees. As one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, the temple holds immense religious importance, especially during Shravan when it becomes a focal point of spiritual activity.
Shravan is a month deeply revered in Hinduism, dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is believed that those who worship Lord Shiva during this time receive abundant blessings. The month also includes Shravan Shivratri, a day with the same spiritual significance as the yearly Maha Shivratri.
This sacred period, typically falling between July and August, is marked by worship, fasting, and pilgrimages dedicated to Lord Shiva. According to Hindu mythology, Shravan is particularly significant because it commemorates the month when Lord Shiva consumed poison from the churning of the ocean (Samudra Manthan), thereby saving the universe from its toxic effects.
Throughout this month, devotees observe fasts and perform rituals to seek Lord Shiva’s blessings. The monsoon rains of Sawan are often seen as a symbol of Shiva’s compassion and benevolence, enhancing the spiritual atmosphere.
Similar scenes unfolded at major temples across India. In Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, devotees participated in the ‘Mangla Aarti’ at the Kashi Vishwanath temple, marking the final Monday of Sawan. Prayers were also offered at the Gauri Shankar Temple in Delhi and the Mankameshwar temple in Prayagraj, as worshippers gathered to honor Lord Shiva on this auspicious day.
