Sawan 2023: Dos and Don’ts for Devotees During ‘Shravan’
In the Hindu lunar calendar, the month of Sawan, also known as Shravan, holds great significance. It is considered one of the holiest months of the year, and every Monday during this period is regarded as a highly auspicious time to fast and seek the blessings of Lord Shiva. As devotees observe this sacred period, there are certain do’s and don’ts that they should keep in mind to ensure the purity of their devotion.
The first and foremost do’s during the Shravan period include rising early in the morning and taking a bath to purify oneself. Devotees should also clean their Puja rooms and sprinkle some Ganga Jal, which is considered holy water. Gathering the necessary items for the puja, such as water, milk, sugar, ghee, curd, honey, sacred thread, sandalwood, flowers, bel leaves, cloves, cardamom, sweets, etc., is also important. Chanting Shiv mantras plays a significant role in connecting with Lord Shiva during the fast.
Devotees who undertake the fast can break their fasts and have the ‘vrat meal’ in the evening, which is a special meal prepared specifically for fasting purposes.
Now, let’s take a look at what should be avoided during the fasts. Devotees should abstain from consuming garlic and onions as part of the dietary restrictions. Consumption of alcohol is also considered sinful during the Sawan period. Non-vegetarian items, including dairy, fish, and eggs, should be avoided as they symbolize the death of living beings. Additionally, using turmeric and tulsi leaves during Lord Shiva worship is not recommended.
Apart from fasting, another significant ritual during the Sawan period is the Kanwar Yatra. During this pilgrimage, people gather water from sacred rivers and place it in small mud pots called Kanwars. These devotees, known as Kanwariyas, don saffron-colored clothes while carrying the holy water and embark on a foot journey to visit temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. The holy water they collect is used to worship the Lord.
This year, the Shravan period stretches for two months instead of the usual one-month duration. The first fasting Monday of the period falls on July 10, while the last Monday fast is observed on August 28. This extension of the Shravan period occurs every 19 years as per the Hindu Calendar.
However, it’s important to note that Malmas or Adhikmas, which is a month with no Sankranti or zodiac sign change, will begin on July 18, 2023, and end on August 16, 2023. During this month, no auspicious or new tasks or rituals are performed.
As devotees immerse themselves in the worship of Lord Shiva and seek the blessings of Lord Shiva and Parvati, following these do’s and don’ts help maintain the purity and sanctity of their devotion during the Sawan period. It is a time of heightened spirituality and devotion for millions of devotees around the world.
As you observe the Sawan period, may your prayers be answered, and may Lord Shiva bestow his blessings upon you for a life filled with peace, happiness, and prosperity.
