The holy month of Shravan has begun from 6th July and will end on 3rd August. Devotees of Lord Shiva enthusiastically dedicate this month to religious practices and offerings. Dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, Shravan month is known for "Sawan Somwar Vrat", people fast on these days to worship them. This auspicious month also marks the beginning of Chaturmas. According to Hindu Mythology, Somwar Vrat is believed to fulfill all the desires of devotees.
Significance of Shravan Month
Throughout the year, Mondays are dedicated to All-mighty Lord Shiva. But, the Somvar Vrat of Shravan Month is of special significance. There is an interesting legend related to Lord Shiva and Moon God, which explains why worshipping Lord Shiva on Mondays is significant. It is believed that those who observe vrat and sincerely worship Lord Shiva on Mondays, can rid themselves of all their troubles.
The Shravan month is related to the Samundra Manthan chapter mentioned within the ancient sacred texts. According to mythological legends, when the lords and the demons participated in the Samudra Manthan, they drew a pot filled with a poison named Halahala. Lord Shiva consumed the whole pot to help these lords and demons obtain Amrit (nectar) and saved the universe. Goddess Parvati held Lors Shiva's neck tight to the poison from entering his body, which resulted in his blue neck (Neelkanth). As a mark of gratitude, people offer Gangajal to Lord Shiva to help him heal.
It is also believed that the unmarried girls can get the husband of their choice by keeping a Somvar vrat for consecutive 16 Mondays, it is called Solah Somwar Vrat. It begins from the very first Monday of Shravan and continues for the next fifteen weeks.
Benefits of Keeping Vrat on Mondays of Shravan Month:
- It is essential to eat right and detoxify your body on a regular level, and fasting is one of the best techniques.
- By performing penance and austerities, an individual can get rid of all the negativities from his life.
- It is believed that by doing vrat in Shravan Mahina, an unmarried can get the partner of her choice.
- It is also believed that Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati bless the married couple and settles marital disputes, if any.
Here's a Diet Plan That Will Help You Observe Vrat Without Feeling Low:
1. Early Morning: Drink one glass of warm water with 1 tbsp of honey and lemon. It will provide hydration and detoxify your body
2. Breakfast: A bowl full of nutritious fruits along with a glass of warm milk. It will energize your body and will provide the necessary fiber.
3. Snack: Eat some dry-fruits like almonds and walnuts after 2 hours of breakfast. It will provide essential vitamins and minerals.
4. Lunch: Have a bowl of salad and sabudana khichdi, you can add black pepper and green chili as an alternative of salt.
5. Evening Snack: In the evening, you can have a cup of tea or coffee. It will make you feel fresh and active.
6. Dinner: Have a nutritionally packed dinner with chappatis, soup, curd, and a bowl of dal.
7. Dinner: If you are hungry, you can have a glass of warm milk along with any seasonal fruit.
8. Bedtime: If you are hungry, you can have a glass of warm milk along with any seasonal fruit.
Just keep in mind to avoid deep-fried food and stay hydrated with sugary juices.
According to Drikpanchang, the significant dates in Shravan month 2020 are:
- July 6 - First Monday of Shravan 2020
- July 13 - Second Monday
- July 20 - Third Monday
- July 27 - Fourth Monday
- August 3 - Last day of Shravan
You can do vrat and stay healthy as well if you plan your meal beforehand, keeping in mind your health requirements. And check out Vasant Masala's online masala store where you can find 100% pure and authentic spices.
Wishing You All A Very Happy Shravan Month!!