Sawan 2023 : Know Date, Somvar And Significance Of Sawan Month
Sawan holds significant religious and cultural importance for Hindus, particularly those who follow Lord Shiva. Devotees observe various rituals and fasts during this month to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva.
Sawan 2023 Dates
This year, the month of Sawan is commencing on July 4th. Sawan is considered a beloved month of Lord Shiva. It is believed that worshiping and offering water (jal-abhishek) to Lord Bholenath during the month of Sawan fulfills all desires. This year’s Sawan is going to be particularly special. Due to the presence of an extra month (Adhikmas), Sawan will span two months instead of one. The month of Sawan will conclude on August 31st, 2023. Consequently, there will be a total of 8 Mondays for fasting during Sawan. Such a conjunction is being witnessed after a span of 19 years.
Sawan Somvar Vrat (Monday Fasting) in 2023:
Many people observe Mondays (known as “Shravan Somvar”) during the month of Sawan as auspicious and offer prayers and offerings to Lord Shiva. It is believed to be a favorable time for spiritual practices, including visiting Shiva temples, performing special prayers, and chanting mantras dedicated to Lord Shiva.
First Monday of Sawan: 10th July
Second Monday of Sawan: 17th July
Third Monday of Sawan: 24th July
Fourth Monday of Sawan: 31st July
Fifth Monday of Sawan: 7th August
Sixth Monday of Sawan: 14th August
Seventh Monday of Sawan: 21st August
Eighth Monday of Sawan: 28th August
During the month of Sawan in 2023, there will be a total of 8 Sawan Somvar Vrat (Monday Fasting) days.
Significance Of Sawan Month
The month of Sawan holds significant cultural, religious, and spiritual importance in Hinduism. Here are some key aspects highlighting the significance of the Sawan month:
Devotion to Lord Shiva: Sawan is considered the favorite month of Lord Shiva, one of the most revered deities in Hinduism. Devotees engage in intense worship, prayers, and offerings to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva. It is believed that sincere devotion during this month can lead to spiritual growth and the fulfillment of desires.
Mondays of Sawan: Mondays (Somvar) during the Sawan month hold special significance. Devotees observe fasts and perform special rituals dedicated to Lord Shiva on these days. Many visit Shiva temples, offer milk, water, and Bilva leaves to the Shiva Lingam, and chant sacred mantras to express their devotion.
Ritualistic Fasting: Fasting during Sawan is considered auspicious and is believed to bring prosperity and happiness. Devotees observe various types of fasts, abstaining from specific foods or meals, to show their dedication to Lord Shiva. Fasting is seen as a way to purify the body and mind, enhancing spiritual connection.
Pilgrimages and Holy Baths: During Sawan, devotees undertake pilgrimages to sacred rivers, especially the Ganges (Ganga), to take holy baths. The act of bathing in these holy waters is believed to cleanse sins and bring spiritual purification. Places like Haridwar, Varanasi, and Rishikesh witness a large influx of devotees during this time.
Festivals and Celebrations: Sawan is marked by several festivals and celebrations. Raksha Bandhan, Hariyali Teej, Nag Panchami, and Shivratri (both Mahashivratri and Sawan Shivratri) are some of the important festivals observed during this month. These festivities involve traditional rituals, fasting, prayers, and cultural celebrations.
Nature and Agriculture: Sawan also holds agricultural significance as it falls during the monsoon season in India. The rains during this time play a vital role in the growth of crops and overall prosperity in farming communities. The month is associated with greenery, rejuvenation, and the blessings of abundant harvests.
The Sawan month symbolizes devotion, purification, and seeking the divine blessings of Lord Shiva. It provides an opportunity for spiritual introspection, religious practices, and cultural celebrations, fostering a deeper connection with the divine and celebrating the gifts of nature.
Happy Sawan Wishes
Happy Sawan! May this auspicious month bring you joy, prosperity, and spiritual enlightenment. May Lord Shiva shower his blessings upon you and fulfill all your wishes. May your heart be filled with devotion and your life be filled with positivity. Enjoy the blissful melodies of bhajans and immerse yourself in the divine energy of this sacred month.
Wishing you a blessed and fulfilling Sawan!
