Sawan, also known as Shravan, is considered one of the holiest months in the Hindu religion. Sawan mahina, or Shravan month, begins on July 22, 2024, and lasts until August 19, 2024, in North India, and will start on August 5, 2024, and end on September 2, 2024. This sacred period is dedicated to the worship of Lord Shiva, with devotees expressing their devotion and gratitude through fasting and various rituals. The entire month is marked by religious fervour as followers visit Shiva temples to seek divine blessings. Sawan is particularly significant as it is dedicated to Lord Shiva, with Monday being his favoured day. This month also features numerous festivals, such as Mangala Gauri Vrat, Hariyali Amavasya, Hariyali Teej, and Rakshabandhan. Temples across the country often host fairs and special ceremonies every Sawan Monday, attracting devotees who participate in various rituals. Sawan (Shravan) 2024 Start and End Dates: Know The Significance, Traditions and Rituals Related to The Holy Month Dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Sawan Mahina Dos:

Daily Jalabhishek: Perform Jalabhishek (pouring water) on the Shiva Lingam daily to seek Lord Shiva’s blessings.

Zodiac-based Abhishek: Conduct the Abhishek (ritual bathing) of Lord Shiva based on your zodiac sign.

Panchamrit Abhishek: Use a mixture of milk, honey, sugar, curd, and ghee for the morning Abhishek. Offering bilva leaves is also considered auspicious.

Rudraksha Worship: Wear a Rudraksha Mala and chant Lord Shiva’s mantras, especially the Mahamrityunjaya Mantra, 108 times daily.

Mangal Gauri Vrat: Women can observe this fast every Tuesday during Sawan.

Charity: Donate essential items to the poor and needy to gain spiritual merit.

Sawan Mahina Don’ts:

Fasting Rules: Avoid consuming any food during fasting periods in Sawan.

Dietary Restrictions: Do not eat onions, leafy vegetables, radishes, garlic, meat, or consume alcohol.

Shaving: Men observing the fast should refrain from shaving throughout the month.

Brinjal Consumption: Avoid eating brinjal, as it is prohibited during the monsoon season.

Criticism: Refrain from criticising fellow devotees of Lord Shiva.

Breaking Fasts: Breaking the fast after taking a vow is considered a sin.

The month of Sawan is a period of intense devotion and spiritual discipline for Hindus. By following the prescribed rituals and abstaining from certain activities, devotees seek to purify themselves and gain Lord Shiva's blessings. This holy month serves as a reminder of the importance of faith, discipline, and charity in one’s spiritual journey.

(The information provided here is based on beliefs and legends only. Before applying any information in real life, consult the concerned expert.)

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 12, 2024 12:56 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).