The month of Shravan is considered an auspicious month to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva. This year, it begins on July 25. Also known as the month of Sawan, it comes after Aashad, which ends on July 24, 2021, according to the Hindu calendar.
During this period, worshippers observe fasts and devotees also carry out Kanwar Yatra (pilgrimage) to Haridwar in Uttarakhand.
This month also means that the followers of Lord Shiva take a bath early morning, visit the temple, and offer prayers.
All Mondays (Somwars) which fall during Shravan month are considered auspicious. Devotees observe sixteen Mondays or Solah Somwar fasting from the first Somwar of Sawan month. In some cases, married couples, too, keep the Solah Somwar Vrat for a happy married life.
Here are the fasting dates observed in Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Chhattisgarh, Bihar and Jharkhand.
1st Shravan Somwar Vrat: July 26, 2021, Monday
2nd Shravan Somwar Vrat: August 2, 2021, Monday
3rd Shravan Somwar Vrat: August 9, 2021, Monday
4th Shravan Somwar Vrat: August 16, 2021, Monday
Shravana Ends: August 22, 2021, Sunday
Dates for Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Goa, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu:
1st Shravan Somwar Vrat: August 9, 2021, Monday
2nd Shravan Somwar Vrat: August 16, 2021, Monday
3rd Shravan Somwar Vrat: August 23, 2021, Monday
4th Shravan Somwar Vrat: August 30, 2021, Monday
5th Shravan Somwar Vrat: September 6, 2021, Monday
Shravana Ends on September 7, 2021, Tuesday
While fasting, devotees can eat certain approved items. Mantras to follow are the Maha Mrutyunjay Mantra and Om Namah Shivaya while fasting.
During Shravan, Mondays are specifically dedicated to Lord Shiva and devotees observe fast and visit temples to offer milk, water, and bilva leaves to Lord Shiva.
Every Monday, the worshippers wear a rudraksha and recite Shravan Somwar Vrata Katha. The devotees are also expected to say no to alcohol and non-vegetarian foods. Items containing ginger and garlic are also not expected to be consumed.
During this month, all Tuesdays are dedicated to Goddess Parvati. And few devotees also observe fast on Tuesday during the holy month to please the consort of Lord Shiva.
