The month of Sawan, also known as Shravan Maas, is a deeply revered period in the Hindu calendar dedicated to Lord Shiva. This holy month, filled with devotion, fasting, and rituals, holds immense spiritual significance for devotees. Sawan 2024 begins on July 22 and concludes on August 19. The auspicious period is observed with great fervour and enthusiasm, especially in Northern India, marking a time of intense spiritual activities and devotion to Lord Shiva. The month of Sawan holds an important place in the Hindu lunar calendar and is known for its numerous festivals and sacred observances. We at LatestLY have collated some key festivals and rituals observed during Sawan 2024. Sawan Somwar Vrat Vidhi: Worship Lord Shiva by Performing These 7 Auspicious Shravan Fasting Rituals.

1. Kamika Ekadashi

Date: Wednesday 31 July, 2024

Kamika Ekadashi is one of the twenty-four Ekadashi Vrats observed to seek the blessings of Lord Vishnu. Devotees fast and engage in prayers and rituals, believing that observing this vrat absolves sins and brings prosperity and spiritual growth.

2. Shravan Somwar Vrat

All Mondays (Somwars) during the month of Shravan are considered highly auspicious for fasting and are known as Shravan Somwar. Devotees, particularly those who worship Lord Shiva, observe fasts and perform special pujas to seek his blessings for health, wealth, and happiness. Sawan Somwar 2024 Vrat Dates in Maharashtra: List of 5 Mondays in Shravan Month in Western and South Indian States To Worship Lord Shiva.

3. Mangala Gauri Vrat

Married women observe Mangala Gauri Vrat each Tuesday in the Hindu month of Shravan to seek conjugal bliss from Goddess Gauri. This vrat is believed to ensure the well-being and prosperity of their husbands and families. Mangala Gauri Vrat 2024 Dates: Know History, Significance, Auspicious Timings and Gauri Vrat Puja Rituals.

4. Hariyali Teej

Date: Wednesday 7 August, 2024

Hariyali Teej commemorates the union of Goddess Parvati with Lord Shiva. Celebrated primarily by married women, the festival is dedicated to marital bliss and the well-being of spouses and children. Women dress in green attire, apply henna, and participate in songs and dances.

5. Nag Panchami

Date: Friday 9 August, 2024

Nag Panchami is a day when married women offer puja and milk to the Snake God. Prayers are offered for the wellness of brothers and family members. It is believed that worshipping snakes on this day protects them from snake bites and brings them good fortune.

6. Shravana Putrada Ekadashi

Date: Friday 16 August, 2024

Shravana Putrada Ekadashi is another significant Ekadashi Vrat observed during Shravan to seek the blessings of Lord Vishnu. It is one of the 24 Ekadashi Vrats. Devotees believe that observing this vrat grants the boon of progeny and ensures the well-being of their children.

7. Varalakshmi Vrat

Date: Friday 16 August, 2024

Varalakshmi Vratam is a festival dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi, the consort of Lord Vishnu. Celebrated mainly in South India, married women perform elaborate pujas to appease the goddess of wealth and prosperity, praying for the well-being of their families.

8. Raksha Bandhan

Date: Monday 19 August, 2024

Raksha Bandhan celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters. On this day, sisters tie a sacred thread (rakhi) around their brothers' wrists, praying for their protection and well-being, while brothers promise to protect their sisters. The festival is marked by the exchange of gifts and sweets and feasting on delicious foods.

9. Gayatri Jayanti

Date: Monday 19 August, 2024

Gayatri Jayanti is observed as the birth anniversary of Goddess Gayatri, the deity of the Vedas. Devotees perform special pujas and recitations of the Gayatri Mantra, seeking wisdom, enlightenment, and spiritual strength.

10. Kalki Jayanti

Date: Saturday 10 August, 2024

Kalki Jayanti marks the future birth anniversary of Lord Vishnu's tenth and final incarnation, Kalki, who is prophesied to appear at the end of the Kali Yuga. Devotees observe this day with prayers, hoping for the eradication of evil and the restoration of dharma.

11. Hayagriva Jayanti

Date: Monday 19 August, 2024

Hayagriva Jayanti is the birth anniversary of Lord Hayagriva, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Known as the deity of knowledge and wisdom, devotees, especially students and scholars, offer prayers and rituals to seek his blessings for intellectual growth and academic success.Hayagriva Jayanti

12. Narali Purnima

Date: Monday 19 August, 2024

Narali Purnima, observed on Shravan Purnima, is celebrated mainly in coastal Maharashtra and the Konkani region. It marks the end of the monsoon season and is particularly significant for the fishing community, who offer coconuts to the sea to appease the Sea God and ensure safe voyages.

13. Sanskrit Diwas

Date: Monday 19 August, 2024

Sanskrit Diwas is celebrated to mark the importance of the Sanskrit language, considered the mother of all Indian languages and one of the oldest languages in the world. Various programs and events are organised to promote the learning and preservation of this classical language.

The month of Shravan is a period of deep devotion and rich cultural festivities. Each festival during this month brings a unique set of traditions and rituals, reflecting the diverse spiritual heritage of Hinduism. Whether fasting, offering prayers, or celebrating familial bonds, Shravana provides a profound opportunity for spiritual growth and communal harmony.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 28, 2024 11:34 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).