Mumbai: The holy Hindu month of Sawan, also known as Shravan Maas, begins on Friday, 11 July 2025. Considered one of the most auspicious months in the Hindu calendar, it is dedicated to Lord Shiva—affectionately known as Bholenath. This sacred period is especially significant for devotees who observe fasts on Mondays, known as Sawan Somwar Vrats, in reverence to the deity.
For those undertaking the Sawan Monday fast for the very first time, there are certain spiritual and ritualistic guidelines to keep in mind. Observing these traditions with sincerity is believed to bring blessings, inner peace, and divine grace. Here’s everything you need to know before beginning your first Somwar Vrat in 2025.
Take a Vow Before You Begin
Before starting the vrat (fast), it is essential to take a formal sankalp (vow) in your heart. This is typically done after bathing and wearing clean clothes in the morning. Face your home shrine or mentally invoke Lord Shiva, reciting Om Namah Shivaya as you dedicate yourself to the fast.
Maintain Cleanliness
On the day of your fast, ensure cleanliness in your home, particularly in the puja area. Wipe down all idols and keep the space pure. Ritual purity is considered vital in Sawan, as it invites divine energy and grace into your surroundings.
Purify the Mind
Spiritual cleanliness is as important as physical cleanliness. Avoid arguments, harsh words, or any form of negativity on your vrat day. Cultivate calmness, kindness, and honesty. It is also recommended to abstain from lies, non-vegetarian food, and alcohol during the fast.
Eat Only Satvik Food
On Sawan Somwar, most devotees follow a phalahar (fruit-based) diet. You may consume fruits, milk, and water throughout the day. Some choose to observe a stricter fast, staying without water (nirjal) or eating only once. Traditionally, grains and salt are avoided.
Follow the Puja Rituals
Worship Lord Shiva either in the morning or evening by offering Gangajal (holy water from the Ganga) on a Shivling or idol at home. Perform abhishek using panchamrit—a mix of milk, curd, ghee, honey, and sugar. Offer belpatra, datura, chandan, bhsm, flowers, and rice (akshat). Chant Om Namah Shivaya or the Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra during the worship.
Don’t Skip the Vrat Katha
Listening to or reading the Sawan Somwar Vrat Katha (fasting story) is an essential part of the ritual. This is believed to complete the observance and spiritually connect the devotee with the significance of the fast.
(Disclaimer: The information provided is based on traditional beliefs and religious texts. News9 Live does not endorse or validate these claims.)