Sawan 2024: Check dates, puja timings, puja rituals and all about auspicious month
Sawan 2024: 'Sawan' also known as 'Shravan' is considered as one of the holiest month of the Hindu lunar calendar is around the corner.
Every Monday during this period is regarded as a highly auspicious time to fast and seek the blessings of Lord Shiva.
Shravan month is considered to be the favourite month of Lord Shiva. It is believed that by worshiping Lord Shiva in this period, one gets immediate relief from their troubles.
This year Shravan month is of 29 days, starting from July 22 and will last till August 31.
A significant aspect of Sawan is the observance of Sawan Somwars, the Mondays that occur during this auspicious month. These Mondays are considered especially sacred and are devoted to fasting and praying in honor of Lord Shiva.
This year, devotees will celebrate five Sawan Somwars on the following dates:
First Sawan Somwar: Monday, July 22
Second Sawan Somwar: Monday, July 29
Third Sawan Somwar: Monday, August 5
Fourth Sawan Somwar: Monday, August 12
Fifth Sawan Somwar: Monday, August 19
During Sawan, devotees perform various rituals and pujas. The most important pujas are performed on Mondays, known as Sawan Somvar. The puja timings generally vary from temple to temple and according to local customs, but the preferred time is during the Pradosh Kaal (evening time), which is approximately 1.5 hours before and after sunset.
Fasting: Many devotees observe fasts, known as "Sawan Somvar Vrat," on Mondays of the month.
Abhishekam: Devotees perform "abhishekam" (ritual bathing) of Lord Shiva's idol or Shiva Linga with water, milk, honey, curd, and other sacred substances.
Visiting Shiva Temples: Devotees visit Shiva temples, especially the famous Jyotirlingas, and offer prayers, flowers, fruits, and other offerings to Lord Shiva
Bhajans and Satsangs: Singing devotional songs (bhajans) and participating in spiritual discourses (satsangs) are common during Sawan.
One of the holiest festivals of the year, Sawan is considered auspicious for seeking Lord Shiva's blessings, and devotees often undertake fasting and other religious practices during this time. Sawan is believed to be a period of spiritual growth, purification, and penance.
- With inputs from agencies
