The auspicious Hindu festival of Sawan, or Shravan, commences today, July 22, marking the start of a month-long period of religious observance. This year, Shravan begins on a Monday, enhancing its spiritual significance, and will continue until August 19, which is also a Monday. The Sawan month, spanning 29 days this year, is considered highly sacred among Hindus.
Today marks the first Sawan Somwar, falling on Monday, July 22. According to Drik Panchang, the Pratipada tithi will be in effect until 1:11 pm, while the Shravana Nakshatra will last until 10:21 pm. The Abhijit muhurat, a particularly auspicious time for worship, will be from 12:00 pm to 12:55 pm.
For devotees observing the fast on the first Sawan Somwar, it is essential to wake up early, take a bath, and dress in new clothes. The next steps involve cleaning both the home and the puja area. Worship should be conducted either at a temple or at home, focusing on the Shivlinga. Perform Abhishekam, apply white sandalwood to Lord Shiva, and offer traditional items such as bhang, dhatura, and bilvapatra. Light a ghee lamp or diya, listen to the story associated with the Sawan Somwar fast, and complete the puja with an aarti of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. The puja should be performed in both the morning and evening.
To conduct the Sawan Somwar puja, gather the following items:
During Shravan, devotees should adhere to a sattvik diet, engage in charitable acts, and avoid tamasik foods like onion, garlic, and non-vegetarian items. Perform Jal Abhishek of the Shivling and limit food intake to one meal a day, preferably consisting of fruits.
For the bhog, devotees can offer Lord Shiva various items including halwa, curd, bhang, panchamrit, honey, milk, malpua, thandai, lassi, dry fruits, and halwa.
As the Sawan month unfolds, these practices and offerings contribute to the spiritual significance of this sacred period.
