The holy month of Sawan (also known as Shravan) will begin on Thursday, July 11, 2025, and will conclude on Saturday, August 9, 2025. This entire month is considered highly sacred in the Hindu tradition and is especially associated with Lord Shiva.
Why is Sawan Considered Special?
Sawan holds great spiritual significance. According to Hindu mythology, during the churning of the cosmic ocean (Samudra Manthan) by the gods and demons, a powerful poison called Halahala emerged. To protect creation, Lord Shiva consumed this poison. His throat turned blue, earning him the name Neelkanth.
To cool down the intense effect of the poison, devotees began offering water, milk, and belpatra (Bael leaves) to Lord Shiva, especially during Sawan, the month when this event is believed to have taken place.
Why Do People Fast on Mondays of Sawan (Sawan Somvar)?
Fasting on Mondays during period is a long-standing tradition rooted in devotion and faith. Here’s why people observe it:
To Please Lord Shiva: Mondays are dedicated to Shiva, and fasting shows devotion.
For Wishes and Blessings: Many believe their prayers for marriage, health, and prosperity are fulfilled during this time.
Spiritual Focus: Fasting helps individuals purify the body and mind and stay focused on spiritual practices.
Why Start the 16 Somvar Vrat (Sixteen Mondays Fast) During Sawan?
The Solah Somvar Vrat, a fast observed on sixteen consecutive Mondays, often begins in the month of Sawan. This ritual is practiced to:
Strengthen oneтАЩs devotion to Lord Shiva.
Bring stability in relationships and family life.
Remove personal and financial struggles.
This vrat is commonly followed by unmarried girls for a suitable life partner and married women for a harmonious married life
Things to Do in this Month
Visit Shiva temples and offer milk, water, bel leaves, and flowers.
ЁЯУ┐ Recite Om Namah Shivaya, Shiv Chalisa, and other Shiva mantras.
ЁЯзВ Consume only satvik food (pure vegetarian meals without onion or garlic).
ЁЯкФ Light a diya and maintain spiritual discipline.
тЭМ Things to Avoid in this Month
ЁЯНЦ Avoid non-vegetarian food, alcohol, and spicy or processed meals.
тЭМ Refrain from anger, harsh words, and negative thoughts.
ЁЯкТ Avoid haircuts, shaving, or grooming on Mondays as per beliefs.
ЁЯЪл Do not skip prayers or ignore regular spiritual practices.
Is this Celebrated in Other Religions or Countries?
While this is mainly a Hindu festival, the essence of monsoon-related devotion is reflected in other traditions too.
In Buddhism, monks follow Vassa (monastic retreat) during the rainy season.
Countries with large Hindu communities such as Nepal, Mauritius, Fiji, Trinidad, the UK, Canada, and the US also observe Sawan with devotion and temple rituals.
While non-Hindus do not fast or worship Lord Shiva, many respect the cultural significance and sometimes participate in community events.
Sawan 2025 is a spiritually uplifting time devoted to inner cleansing, prayer, and self-control. By observing the rituals with sincerity, one aligns with the divine energy of Lord Shiva. Whether you fast for spiritual reasons or personal goals, Sawan offers a beautiful opportunity to connect with faith and simplicity.
