New Delhi, July 30: On Thursday, people across the country welcomed the sacred month of Sawan with deep reverence. Thousands of devotees gathered at Shiva temples from early morning to worship and seek blessings from Lord Shiva.
Sawan, also known as Shravan, is the fifth month of the Hindu calendar and is entirely dedicated to the worship of Lord Shiva. This holy month, which falls during the monsoon in July and August, is considered one of the most auspicious times in Hinduism.
Millions of devotees observe fasts, perform special prayers, visit temples, and undertake pilgrimages to celebrate this month. From the early hours of Sawan, a significant number of worshippers were seen engaging in rituals and prayers at Shiva temples. Long queues of devotees were observed at many prominent temples, where they participated in religious ceremonies with enthusiasm and faith.
According to Hindu mythology, the churning of the ocean occurred during the month of Sawan. During this event, poison emerged, threatening the existence of the universe. It is believed that Lord Shiva consumed this poison to protect creation, holding it in his throat, which turned blue, earning him the name ‘Neelkanth.’
Religious beliefs also state that Goddess Parvati performed severe penance during Sawan to win Lord Shiva as her husband. Therefore, this time is particularly significant for devotees seeking blessings for prosperity, marital happiness, and spiritual well-being.
Throughout the month, devotees express their devotion to Lord Shiva by fasting every Monday. These fasts are observed with the belief that sincere prayers made during Sawan bring peace, prosperity, and fulfillment of wishes.
The month also witnesses the annual Kanwar Yatra, during which devotees undertake long journeys to collect holy water from the Ganges and offer it at Shiva temples. During Sawan, devotees regularly perform the traditional ‘Abhishek’ of the Shiva Lingam using milk, honey, yogurt, ghee, water, and sacred bilva leaves, which hold special significance in Shiva worship.
Many devotees choose to consume vegetarian food during this holy month and refrain from eating meat.
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