Introduction
The month of Sawan holds great significance in the Hindu calendar and is eagerly awaited by devotees across India. This auspicious month, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is marked by numerous festivals, rituals, and celebrations. In 2023, Sawan is due to commence, and devotees are preparing to embark on a spiritual journey filled with devotion and reverence.
The Significance of Sawan
Sawan, the fifth month of the Hindu calendar, holds immense religious significance, especially for devotees of Lord Shiva. It is believed that during this month, Lord Shiva drank the poison (Halahala) that emanated from the churning of the ocean by Devas and Asuras, thus saving the world from destruction. The act of drinking the poison turned his neck blue, earning him the name “Neelkanth.”
Devotees believe that worshiping Lord Shiva during this month can bring them the blessings of longevity, peace, and prosperity. Sawan is also known as the ‘month of love’, where couples pray for a long and happy marital life, and unmarried individuals seek blessings for a compatible partner.
Start Date of Sawan 2023
In 2023, the month of Sawan is set to begin on July 10th and will continue until August 7th. This auspicious month is characterised by the Sawan Somvar Vrat, where devotees observe fasts and offer prayers to Lord Shiva on Mondays, a day dedicated to the worship of the deity.
Celebrations and Rituals
During the month of Sawan, devotees undertake various rituals and practices to express their devotion to Lord Shiva. Some of the common practices observed during this month include:
1. Fasting: Mondays hold special significance during Sawan, and devotees observe fasts where they abstain from consuming food or only eat specific items.
2. Offering Jal(Abhishek): Devotees offer water or milk to the Shivling as a sign of reverence and love towards Lord Shiva.
3. Chanting Mantras: Reciting Shiva mantras and Shiva Chalisa is believed to bring peace and prosperity into the lives of devotees.
4. Visiting Shiva Temples: Devotees throng to Shiva temples across the country to offer their prayers and seek the blessings of the deity.
5. Wearing Rudraksha: Wearing Rudraksha beads is considered auspicious during Sawan as they are believed to have a connection with Lord Shiva.
FAQs
Q1. What is the significance of Sawan in Hindu mythology?
A: Sawan holds significance in Hindu mythology as the month when Lord Shiva drank the poison Halahala that emanated from the churning of the ocean, saving the world from destruction.
Q2. What are the important dates to observe in Sawan 2023?
A: The month of Sawan in 2023 will start on July 10th. Mondays are considered especially auspicious for worshiping Lord Shiva during this month.
Q3. How do devotees observe Sawan Somvar Vrat?
A: Devotees observe Sawan Somvar Vrat by fasting on Mondays, offering prayers to Lord Shiva, and visiting Shiva temples to seek blessings.
Q4. Why is offering Jal (Abhishek) significant during Sawan?
A: Offering Jal or Abhishek to the Shivling during Sawan is significant as it symbolizes the devotee’s love, devotion, and reverence towards Lord Shiva.
Q5. Is wearing Rudraksha beads considered auspicious during Sawan?
A: Yes, wearing Rudraksha beads is considered auspicious during Sawan as they are believed to have a connection with Lord Shiva and bring blessings to the wearer.
In conclusion, the month of Sawan in 2023 presents a unique opportunity for devotees to deepen their spiritual practices, seek the blessings of Lord Shiva, and partake in various rituals and celebrations. By observing fasts, chanting mantras, and offering prayers, devotees can experience a sense of peace, prosperity, and divine grace throughout this auspicious month.
