The month of Sawan, sacred to devotees of Lord Shiva and Maa Parvati, commences on July 22nd, 2024. This auspicious period, also known as Shravan, coincides with the onset of monsoon in India, marking a time for heightened devotion and spiritual practices. Hindus observe fasts, particularly on Mondays, known as Sawan Somwar, during this month.
Sawan 2024: Start and End Dates
The month of Sawan begins on July 22nd and concludes on August 19th, 2024, spanning a total of 29 days. This year, devotees will have the opportunity to observe five Sawan Somwar vrats. Here are the dates for each:
* July 22, 2024 – First Sawan Somwar vrat
* July 29, 2024 – Second Sawan Somwar vrat
* August 5, 2024 – Third Sawan Somwar vrat
* August 12, 2024 – Fourth Sawan Somwar vrat
* August 19, 2024 – Sawan ends (Last or fifth Sawan Somwar vrat)
For certain states including Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Goa, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu, Sawan is scheduled to begin on August 5th and end on September 3rd.
Sawan 2024: Mythological History
According to Indian mythology, Sawan’s history traces back to the Samudra Manthan, a momentous event where gods (devas) and evil forces (asuras) churned the ocean to obtain ‘Amrit,’ the elixir of immortality. This churning led to the emergence of numerous objects, including jewelry and animals, but also unleashed a deadly poison. During the month of Sawan, the chaos ensuing from this poison threatened to destroy everyone. In a moment of crisis, all the Gods turned to Lord Shiva for a solution. He consumed the poison, causing his body to turn blue. Goddess Parvati, filled with concern for her husband, entered Shiva’s throat to prevent the poison from spreading further. This act cemented Lord Shiva’s title as Neelkanth, the blue-throated one.
Significance of the Vrat
During the month of Sharavan, devotees focus their worship on Lord Shiva, Maa Parvati, Chandra Dev, Shri Hari Vishnu, and Maa Laxmi. Homes also witness the performance of Satyanarayan Puja. Offerings during these rituals often include Belpatra leaves, incense, lamps, pure water, flowers, sweets, and fruits.
