Shravan month - 2023 - TEAM9
"Shravan: The month that fills hearts with devotion and souls with blessings!"-TEAM9 (Together Everyone Achieve More)
Introduction:
The month of Sawan holds immense significance in Hinduism as one of the sacred months. It signifies the arrival of the monsoon season in India, bringing much-needed rainfall for agricultural prosperity. Commencing in late July and continuing until the third week of August, Sawan is dedicated to the worship of Lord Shiva, the supreme deity. Devotees gather in various temples to chant Shiva Mantras and offer prayers throughout this auspicious period. It's worth noting that due to the vastness of India, the Northern states celebrate Sawan approximately 15 days ahead of the Southern states. This divine month is marked by numerous festivals and elaborate poojas conducted to honor Lord Shiva. As the god believed to possess immense cosmic energy, Lord Shiva's presence charges the entire universe. It is considered highly favorable to observe fasting and perform poojas during this sacred month, enhancing spiritual growth and connection with the divine.
Importance of the Sawan Month:
The month of Shraavana holds immense religious significance, making it an ideal time for conducting various sacred activities and embarking on new beginnings. Devotees show their devotion by pouring milk and water over the Shiva Linga and offering Bel leaves every Monday. They observe fasts throughout the day, abstaining from food until dusk.
In mythology, Lord Shiva's consumption of the poison that emerged from the churning of the cosmic ocean affected the crescent moon on his forehead. To alleviate its impact, the gods poured holy water from the Ganga river onto the moon. Since then, offering Ganga water to Lord Shiva has been considered auspicious.
Another auspicious practice during Shraavana is offering milk and wearing Rudraksha beads, which are believed to carry divine blessings. Additionally, devotees observe fasts every Monday, known as Sawan Somwar, as Monday is regarded as Lord Shiva's day. This dedicated fasting on Mondays throughout the month holds special significance for devotees.
Significance and Origins of Celebrating Sawan:
The history of Shraavana is intertwined with the fascinating episode of Samudra Manthan from Hindu scriptures. During the search for the elixir of immortality (Amrit), both the gods (Devas) and demons (Asuras) churned the cosmic ocean, leading to the discovery of fourteen precious treasures. Among these treasures was Halahala, a potent and venomous poison capable of causing destruction throughout the universe. In their distress, the Devas sought the assistance of Lord Shiva, who fearlessly consumed the Halahala, earning him the epithet "Neelkantha" (the one with a blue throat).
The intensity of the poison was so formidable that it started affecting the serene crescent moon adorning Lord Shiva's forehead. To counteract its impact, the Devas swiftly fetched the holy waters of the Ganga (Gangajal) and poured it over Lord Shiva's head. Through this divine intervention, the malevolent effects of the Halahala were neutralized. This remarkable event occurred during the sacred month of Shraavana, thus establishing the profound significance of Lord Shiva's worship and reverence during the Sawan month.
Exploring Sawan Somwaar Significance and the Power of Fasting:
Mondays hold special significance for Lord Shiva, and during the sacred month of Sawan, they become even more auspicious. Known as Shravan Mass Somvar, devotees observe Mondays with reverence and devotion. Fasting during the Sawan month, as mentioned in the Shivpuran, is believed to bring immense benefits. By undertaking this fast, devotees seek the blessings of Lord Shiva, leading to the fulfillment of their needs and desires. The observance of Shravan Mass fasting strengthens the bond between devotees and the divine, paving the way for spiritual growth and the manifestation of heartfelt aspirations.
The devotees willingly observe two types of fasts:
1.Full Fast: They abstain from consuming any food until sunset.
2.Partial Fast: They have the option to eat fruits and fasting-friendly foods such as sabudana and boiled potato.
Sawan Somwar fasting offers several advantages:
Spiritual blessings are bestowed upon devotees.
It enhances physical and mental resilience.
It fortifies willpower and memory.
Girls who observe fasting on Mondays are believed to attract an ideal life partner.
It eliminates negativity from one's life.
Sawan: Exploring the Depths of Spiritual Activities
During the month of Sawan, numerous individuals actively participate in spiritual pursuits. This period witnesses a variety of significant activities carried out by devotees. Furthermore, each day of the week holds its own unique importance, as detailed below:
Mondays serve as a day of reverence for Lord Shiva, the deity of worship.
On Tuesdays, women engage in rituals to honor Gauri, seeking improved family well-being.
Wednesdays are set aside specifically for the worship of Lord Vithala.
Thursdays are dedicated to the veneration of Guru and Buddha.
Fridays entail the adoration of Lakshmi and Tulsi. Within the sacred month of Sawan.
Saturdays hold a special significance as Shravan Saturdays, devoted to the worship of Lord Shani, the bestower of wealth.
Sundays are devoted to paying homage to the Sun god.
Significance of Poojas in Sawan
Poojas hold a significant place in the realm of Hindu worship, and this significance extends to the auspicious month of Sawan as well. Poojas, encompassing prayers accompanied by the recitation of mantras and bhajans, serve as a means to connect with the divine and invoke a sense of joy and contentment within them. In the sacred month of Sawan, numerous devotees from all corners of India engage in various forms of poojas. Here are some examples of these revered practices:
Rudra Abhishek:
The act of Rudra Abhishek involves offering panchamrit, bel leaves, and dhatura to Lord Shiva, aiming to purify the body, instill peace, and inspire the fulfillment of desires.
Mahamrityunjay Pooja:
This particular pooja is conducted with the intention of attaining a healthy life, with a focus on chanting the Mahamrityunjay Mantra. By performing this pooja, one seeks the grace of Lord Shiva, finding relief from troubles and stress, while also experiencing profound spiritual awakening and liberation from diseases.
Mangala Gauri Pooja:
On Tuesdays, numerous girls and women engage in the Mangala Gauri Pooja, wherein they worship Goddess Gauri to fulfill their desires and promote their well-being. Both married and unmarried girls participate in this ritual.
Some Significant Festivals and Celebrations of the Month of Sawan:
1.Naag Panchami:
Snakes and serpents have been worshipped since ancient times and are mentioned in scriptures. They are revered for the well-being of families. Nagas are believed to originate from Naga-Loka, and they are offered milk while their paintings and photos adorn homes.
2.Raksha Bandhan:
The sacred festival of Raksha Bandhan also occurs during the month of Sawan. This festival signifies the bond between brothers and sisters, with the sister tying a sacred thread called Rakhi. The Rakhi symbolizes the brother's commitment to protect his sister.
3.Krishna Janmashtami
Krishna Janmashtami, one of the grandest festivals of the holy month of Sawan, is celebrated throughout India. It commemorates the birth anniversary of Lord Krishna, the eighth incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Decorations called "Jhanki" are displayed in many places, and devotees reenact Krishna's birth. A popular tradition is the dahi handi, where participants recreate how Shri Krishna used to break earthen pots to enjoy butter and yogurt.
Conclusion:
The month of Sawan holds great significance and is regarded as sacred. People in India often engage in spiritual practices and embark on new beginnings during this auspicious month, known as "Shubh Aarambh." They follow a healthy and spiritual lifestyle by abstaining from non-vegetarian food. Various fairs and gatherings are organized to attract people. The pleasant weather delights the earth and fills everyone with happiness. The entire month is celebrated with joy and grace.
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