The month of Sawan, also known as Shravan, holds significant cultural and religious importance in the Hindu calendar. This auspicious month, typically falling between July and August, is dedicated to Lord Shiva, and is considered extremely propitious for spiritual practices and devotion. Devotees observe various rituals and fasts during this time to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Let’s delve deeper into the key dates and significance of Sawan 2023.
Significance of Sawan:
Sawan holds profound significance in Hindu mythology, with numerous legends and stories associated with it. According to popular beliefs, the churning of the ocean to obtain the elixir of immortality, known as Amrit, took place during this month. Additionally, it is believed that Lord Shiva consumed the poison Halahala that emerged during the churning to save the world, earning him the title of Neelkanth. Sawan is also considered the favorite month of Lord Shiva, and devotees believe that prayers and penance during this time are especially auspicious.
Sawan 2023 Dates:
- Sawan Start Date: The auspicious month of Sawan is expected to commence on July 10, 2023.
- Sawan End Date: The concluding day of Sawan is anticipated to be on August 8, 2023.
- Sawan Monday Dates: Mondays of this month, known as Shravan Somvar, are considered highly significant for worshipping Lord Shiva. The Sawan Mondays in 2023 fall on July 10, July 17, July 24, and July 31, August 7.
- Nag Panchami: Celebrated on the fifth day of the bright half of the lunar month, Nag Panchami during Sawan holds immense importance. In 2023, Nag Panchami is on July 25.
- Shravan Putrada Ekadashi: Falling on August 6, this Ekadashi is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and holds special significance for childless couples seeking progeny.
Rituals and Practices:
During the month of Sawan, devotees engage in various rituals and practices to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva. Some common observances include:
– Fasting on Mondays: Mondays in Sawan are dedicated to Lord Shiva. Devotees observe fasts and offer prayers to seek His blessings and protection.
– Offering Jal (Water) on Shiva Linga: It is believed that offering water to the Shivling with devotion brings peace and happiness.
– Refraining from Non-Vegetarian Food: Many devotees abstain from consuming non-vegetarian food during this month as a form of purification.
– Reciting Shiva Mantras and Chanting Om Namah Shivaya: Chanting powerful mantras and the sacred Om Namah Shivaya is believed to bring spiritual benefits.
Festivals and Celebrations:
Sawan is marked by various festivals and celebrations that hold religious and cultural significance. Some important festivals during this month include:
– Mahashivratri: Though Mahashivratri is celebrated in Phalgun month, the Shivratri falling in Sawan is also significant, known as Sawan Shivratri.
– Teej: Particularly celebrated by women, Hariyali Teej and Kajari Teej are observed during Sawan with great fervor.
– Raksha Bandhan: The popular festival of Raksha Bandhan, symbolizing the bond between siblings, falls in the month of Sawan.
– Tulsi Vivah: The ceremonial marriage of Lord Vishnu with Tulsi plant is performed in Sawan.
FAQs on Sawan:
Q1: Why is Sawan considered auspicious for worshipping Lord Shiva?
A1: Sawan is believed to be the favorite month of Lord Shiva, and prayers and penance during this time are considered highly auspicious.
Q2: What are the significance of the Sawan Somvar (Mondays)?
A2: Mondays in Sawan, known as Shravan Somvar, are dedicated to Lord Shiva, and observing fasts and offering prayers on these days is believed to yield special blessings.
Q3: Can anyone observe fasts during Sawan?
A3: Fasting during Sawan is a personal choice and is typically observed by those seeking spiritual benefits and the blessings of Lord Shiva.
Q4: Are there any specific food restrictions during Sawan?
A4: Many devotees refrain from consuming non-vegetarian food during Sawan as a form of purification and devotion.
Q5: What is the significance of Nag Panchami during Sawan?
A5: Nag Panchami, which falls in Sawan, is dedicated to the worship of snakes and holds cultural and religious importance in Hindu traditions.
The month of Sawan is a time of devotion, spirituality, and seeking blessings from the divine. By observing the rituals, fasting, and participating in the festivals of this auspicious month, devotees aim to deepen their connection with the spiritual realm and experience the grace of the deities. As Sawan 2023 approaches, let us immerse ourselves in the divine energy and auspiciousness that this sacred month brings.