In the states of North India, the month of Shravan is also referred to as ‘Sawan’. This month is considered extremely auspicious and spiritually rewarding. It is believed that observing fasts on all the Mondays of the Shravan month—known as ‘Shravan Somvar’ or ‘Sawan Somvar’—fulfills all one’s wishes. Many devotees also undertake a vow to fast for sixteen consecutive Mondays, starting from the first Monday of the Sawan month. This month symbolizes the union of Shiva (Lord Shiva) and Shakti (Mother Parvati).
While the Monday fast holds special significance during Shravan, observing a fast on Tuesdays invokes the special grace of Mother Parvati. Observing the ‘Mangal Gauri Vrat’ on the Tuesdays of the Sawan month is considered highly auspicious. Shivratri and Hariyali Amavasya are other auspicious days during this month that bring divine blessings.
When do the Sawan Mondays begin?
According to the Hindu calendar, the month of Sawan in 2026 will begin on Thursday, July 30, 2026. It will conclude on Friday, August 28, 2026, on the day of Shravan Purnima. During this period, there will be a total of four ‘Sawan Somwar’ fasts. Additionally, rituals such as Rudrabhishek and the chanting of the Mahamrityunjaya Mantra will be performed, ensuring that Lord Shiva’s grace remains upon His devotees.
The four Sawan Somwar 2026 fasts will be observed on the following dates:
Sawan Somwar 2026
First Sawan Monday: 3rd July
Second Sawan Monday: 10th July
Third Sawan Monday: 17th July
Fourth Sawan Monday: 24th July
Why is the month of Sawan dedicated to Lord Shiva?
The month of Sawan is extremely dear to Lord Shiva. It is believed that the more it rains during this month, the more pleased Lord Shiva becomes, showering his special grace upon his devotees. According to mythological legends, during the Samudra Manthan (Churning of the Ocean), Lord Shiva held the deadly Halahal poison in his throat; this is why he is also known as ‘Neelkanth’ (the Blue-Throated One). The legend recounts that when Lord Shiva held the poison in his throat, chaos and panic ensued among the gods and demons.
To soothe the burning sensation in his throat, the gods performed an *abhishek* (ritual bathing) using the holy waters of the River Ganga upon Mahadev’s matted locks. This event took place during the month of Shravan, and the heat in Mahadev’s throat gradually subsided. Moved by the sincere devotion of the gods, Mahadev was greatly pleased and bestowed abundant blessings upon them.
Key Spiritual Practices During Sawan
- Sawan Monday Fast (Vrat)
Observing fasts on Mondays during the month of Shravan (Sawan) invokes the grace of Lord Shiva. It fosters self-control and personal growth in life. Many devotees begin the ’16 Mondays’ fast during this month; this practice helps resolve delays in marriage, attracts a desired life partner, and leads to a happy married life.
- Rudrabhishek Puja
Performing Rudrabhishek Puja is a prescribed ritual to dispel negativity and overcome the ups and downs of life. To seek divine grace, the deity is worshipped by performing *Abhishek* (ritual bathing) with *Panchamrit* (a mixture of milk, curd, ghee, honey, and sugar). This practice helps mitigate the adverse effects of planetary influences. Chant these mantras as well.
ॐ नमः शिवाय॥
ॐ तत्पुरुषाय विद्महे महादेवाय धीमहि तन्नो रुद्रः प्रचोदयात्॥”
ॐ त्र्यम्बकं यजामहे सुगन्धिं पुष्टिवर्धनम्। उर्वारुकमिव बन्धनान् मृत्योर्मुक्षीय मामृतात्॥
- Practice Meditation and Yoga
Meditation during this period helps balance the mind, while yoga keeps both the body and mind healthy. These practices enhance the power of concentration, allowing one to become deeply immersed in devotion to the Lord.
- Mangala Gauri Vrat
Women observe the Mangala Gauri Vrat to ensure peace and happiness in their married lives and to pray for their husbands’ longevity. Married women observe this fast on Tuesdays. The ritual involves worshipping Goddess Gauri and listening to the *Vrat Katha* (the story associated with the fast). For the puja, place an idol or picture of Goddess Gauri, light a lamp, and prepare a lamp made of wheat flour. Offerings include cloves, betel nuts, *laddus*, fruits, five types of dry fruits, and seven varieties of grains. Chant these mantras as well.
ॐ श्री मंगला गौरी देव्यै नमः
ॐ पार्वती पतये नमः
सर्वमंगला मंगलये, शिवे सर्वार्थ सधिके, शरणय त्र्यम्बके गौरी, नारायणी नमोस्तुते
Which puja is the most powerful during the month of Shravan 2026?
The Rudrabhishek puja is performed during the month of Shravan to appease the planets.
What should one avoid consuming during the month of Shravan 2026?
One should consume *Sattvic* food during this period. Avoid using alcohol, onions, and garlic in your meals. Additionally, refrain from consuming meat and alcohol. Keep your mind under control and focus on devotion to the Lord.
Can unmarried women observe the Shravan Monday fast?
Apart from married women, unmarried women can also observe this fast. They may observe the Shravan Monday fast to seek Lord Shiva’s blessings for a good life partner and a timely marriage.
Can Rudrabhishek be performed at home during the month of Shravan?
If you wish to have Rudrabhishek performed by a qualified Vedic priest during the month of Shravan, contact StarsTell. Here, the ritual will be conducted with the correct mantras and strict adherence to ceremonial purity, accompanied by a *Sankalp* (solemn vow) made in your name. Rudrabhishek holds special significance on Shravan Mondays.
If you wish to book a Shravan puja, Rudrabhishek, or *Mahamrityunjaya Jaap* during the month of Shravan, you can do so by visiting the StarsTell website. This service is available both in India and abroad.
To know more about Shravan 2026, talk to our astrologers now!
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