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In Sanatan Dharma, the month of Shravan, also known as Shravan Maas, holds a revered and spiritually significant place. This sacred period, typically spanning July and August in the English calendar, is devoted to Lord Shiva, the Supreme deity of protection, transformation, and destruction. In 2024, Shravan Maas begins on July 22nd and ends on August 19th.
Characters in the story:
Lord Shiva: Lord Shiva holds significant prominence in Hinduism as a prominent deity, revered for his role as the vanquisher of malevolence and the catalyst of universal change. Depicted in various forms, he is often portrayed as a tranquil ascetic engaged in deep meditation or as the divine dancer, adorned with a third eye, an entwined serpent around his neck, and a trident grasped firmly in his hand.
Shravan Maas is the fifth month of the Hindu calendar, known as “Sawan” or “Shravan” month, and is celebrated with immense devotion and enthusiasm by millions of devotees across India and around the world. It marks the commencement of the Chaturmaas, a holy period consisting of four months: Shravan (सावन), Bhadrapad (भाद्रपद), Ashwin (आश्विन), and Kartik (कार्तिक).
The month of Shravan is regarded as one of the most auspicious times of the year for devotees of Lord Shiva. During this period, it is believed that Lord Shiva bestows his divine blessings upon his followers, granting them strength, prosperity, and spiritual growth. The name “Shravan” is derived from the Shravan Nakshatra (constellation), which aligns with the full moon during this time.
There are numerous ancient stories associated with the month of Shravan, each carrying its own significance and hidden messages. These stories offer valuable lessons that one can learn from to lead a better life.
Story 1:
According to the puranic tale, King Daksha’s daughter, Sati, sacrificed her life and was reborn as Parvati, the daughter of the Himalayan King. Devi Parvati deeply desired to marry Lord Shiva and, to fulfill this wish, she performed penance during the month of Shravan. Lord Shiva, pleased with her unwavering devotion, granted her wish and they were united in marriage.
Consequently, many unmarried girls observe fasting on Mondays during Shravan (Shravan Somvar Vrat), seeking a happy and successful married life.
Story 2:
In Hindu culture, the ‘Samudra Manthan’ holds immense significance and spiritual meaning, and it was performed during the month of Shravan. Among the fourteen elements that emerged from the ocean during the churning, one was the deadly poison ‘Halahal.’ Neither the Devas nor the Asuras were willing to take it.
Only Lord Shiva stepped forward and consumed the lethal poison to save the world. Holding the poison in his throat, he became known as Neelkantha, meaning ‘the one with a blue throat,’ as his throat turned blue due to the venom.
Shiva Puja during the month of Shravan is an expression of gratitude to Lord Shiva, who always protects his devotees from all kinds of dangers and diseases, blessing them with good health and fortune.
Story 3:
Another popular story about the Shravan month is about Lord Vishnu going to sleep for four months. On Devshayani Ekadashi, he goes to sleep and on Dev Uthani Ekadashi he wakes up from the sleep.
The story goes like this. On being happy with King Bali for his charity and selflessness when Lord Vishnu tested him through his Vamana Avatar, Lord Vishnu promised to reside forever in ‘Patala’ – the underground world of King Bali.
Laxmiji, Lord Vishnu’s wife became unhappy when she heard of this. Distressed, she approached Lord Shiva and Lord Brahma. They consoled her and promised that they would spend four months of the year in Patala each in place of Lord Vishnu, thus freeing the Lord Vishnu for eight months.
These four months are the Chaturmas which starts with the month of Shravan. During this time, Lord Shiva takes command and keeps the universe in balance.
Fasting
Fasting holds immense significance during the Shravan month. Many devotees observe the “Sawan Somvar Vrat,” fasting on Mondays throughout the month. They abstain from consuming food and water, instead engaging in deep meditation and chanting Shiva mantras. This practice is believed to purify the mind, body, and soul, fostering a deeper connection with the divine energy of Lord Shiva.
Besides Mondays, Shravan Month is also important for fasting on three other highly auspicious days:
Shravan Mangalvar (Tuesdays): Newly married girls perform the Mangala Gauri Vrata on Tuesdays during Shravan to ward off bad and negative omens.
Shravan Shukrawar (Fridays): Married ladies observe the Varalakshmi Vratam.
Shravan Shaniwar (Saturdays): Devotees worship Lord Vishnu, also known as Lord Balaji or Lord Venkatesh.
Kanwar Yatra
One of the most prominent features of the Shravan month is the Kanwar Yatra. Devotees, known as “Kanwariyas,” undertake a pilgrimage to sacred rivers and Shiva temples, carrying ornate pitchers filled with holy water, mainly from the Ganges River (Ganga Jal). These devotees walk long distances, often barefoot, chanting hymns and seeking Lord Shiva’s blessings.
During the Kanwar Yatra, devotees follow a set of rituals and observances. They observe fasting, abstinence, and practice celibacy during the pilgrimage. Many devotees engage in chanting bhajans (devotional songs), recite hymns dedicated to Lord Shiva, and perform Rudra Abhishekam (ritual bathing of the Shiva Lingam) at various temples en route.
Festivals during Shravan Month
There are various significant Hindu festivals which come in the month of Shravan and are celebrated with much devotion and vigor.
Rakshabandhan: On this day, sisters pray for their brothers’ safety by tying a Rakhi (thread), and in return, brothers promise to protect them.
Jandhyam/Janai Purnima: This is the day for Upakarma, the ritual of changing the sacred thread.
Hayagriva Jayanthi: Devotees worship the horse-headed avatar of Lord Vishnu, Hayagriva, for his wisdom.
Pavitropana: In Gujarat, people celebrate by worshiping Lord Shiva.
Balaram Jayanthi: This day marks the birth of Balaram, Lord Krishna’s beloved elder brother.
Amarnath Yatra: This sacred journey, which starts on Guru Purnima Day, traditionally ends on this day according to the Puranas.
Krishna Janmashtami: The birth of Lord Krishna is celebrated with great festivities during Shravan Maas.
Onam: This festival marks the homecoming of King Mahabali and occurs under the Shraavana star.
Garuda/Nag Panchami: On this day, people worship the Nag (snake) and Garuda (eagle), acknowledging their importance despite being traditional rivals.
The month of Shravan holds a sacred place in the hearts of millions of Hindus worldwide. It is a time for deep devotion, introspection, and spiritual growth. By observing fasts, performing rituals, and engaging in acts of piety, devotees seek to purify their souls, strengthen their connection with Lord Shiva, and experience spiritual transformation. Shravan month serves as a reminder of the enduring power of faith and devotion, highlighting the importance of embracing spirituality in our lives. As we celebrate this auspicious month of Shravan in 2024, may Lord Shiva bless you with his grace and accelerate your spiritual journey. Let’s all have an awesome time during this sacred period.
