The month of Sawan, also known as Shravan, holds a sacred place in the Hindu calendar. It is a time of spiritual devotion, fasting, temple visits, and deep reverence to Lord Shiva. Many devotees eagerly ask, Kab se Sawan start hai? which translates to When does Sawan begin? The answer varies slightly depending on regional calendars, but the enthusiasm and religious significance remain constant across India. Whether in North India or South India, the arrival of Sawan signals a month of faith, rituals, and divine blessings.
Start Date of Sawan in 2024
In 2024, the month of Sawan begins on Thursday, July 25, according to the Purnimant calendar followed in North India. This includes states like Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh, and Bihar. In these regions, Sawan is counted from the day after Guru Purnima, which marks the end of the month of Ashadha.
In the Amavasyant calendar system followed in Maharashtra, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, and Karnataka, Sawan begins a bit earlier. In these states, it is expected to start on Monday, July 8, 2024. Despite the variation in the starting date, the religious significance and customs of the month remain essentially the same.
Duration of the Sawan Month
The month of Sawan usually lasts for 29 to 30 days, covering one complete lunar cycle. In 2024, Sawan will end on Monday, August 19, in most parts of India. During this time, devotees observe various fasts, particularly the famous Sawan Somvar Vrat observed on each Monday of the month. The number of Mondays in Sawan 2024 is four, making it a spiritually intense month for devotees of Lord Shiva.
- First Sawan Somvar: July 29, 2024
- Second Sawan Somvar: August 5, 2024
- Third Sawan Somvar: August 12, 2024
- Fourth Sawan Somvar: August 19, 2024
Spiritual Significance of Sawan
Sawan is considered the holiest month to worship Lord Shiva. According to ancient beliefs, it is during this time that Lord Shiva performed the cosmic dance of Tandava. Many also believe that during the churning of the ocean (Samudra Manthan), it was in the month of Sawan that Lord Shiva consumed the deadly poison Halahala to save the universe. In gratitude and devotion, devotees offer him water, milk, bilva leaves, and chant mantras like Om Namah Shivaya.
Rituals and Customs During Sawan
The rituals observed during the month of Sawan are steeped in tradition and spirituality. Here are some of the common practices:
- Kanwar Yatra: One of the most significant pilgrimages during Sawan. Devotees known as Kanwariyas carry holy water from the Ganges river and offer it to Shiva temples, especially in Haridwar, Gaumukh, and Sultanganj.
- Fasting: Many people observe fasts every Monday (Somvar) and avoid consuming meat, alcohol, onion, and garlic. Some fast for the entire month, eating only once a day.
- Monday Puja: Special pujas are held in temples, with offerings of milk, curd, ghee, sugar, and honey poured on Shiva Lingam (Abhishek).
- Bilva Patra Offering: Devotees offer bilva leaves, which are believed to be Lord Shiva’s favorite. The leaves must be fresh and offered in odd numbers.
Importance of Sawan Somvar
The Mondays of Sawan, known as Sawan Somvar, are considered extremely auspicious. Devotees wake up early, take a holy bath, and visit Shiva temples to perform special pujas. Fasting on these days is believed to bring blessings of health, prosperity, and marital harmony. Unmarried women observe these fasts hoping to be blessed with an ideal life partner, while married women pray for the well-being of their husbands and families.
What to Eat and Avoid During Sawan
Dietary restrictions during Sawan are followed to promote purity of body and soul. Here’s a guide to common do’s and don’ts:
- Allowed Foods: Fruits, milk, sabudana (tapioca), rock salt, potatoes, and kuttu or singhare ka atta (buckwheat or water chestnut flour).
- Foods to Avoid: Non-vegetarian items, onion, garlic, regular salt, processed foods, and alcohol.
These restrictions not only reflect religious discipline but also align with the monsoon season’s health precautions, helping to avoid digestive problems and infections.
Regional Observances and Celebrations
While the essence of Sawan remains the same across India, regional variations add color and diversity to its celebration. In North India, the Kanwar Yatra and heavy temple footfall make the month highly visible. In Maharashtra, the festival of Shravan begins with rituals specific to the Marathi culture, including the celebration of Mangala Gauri Vrat on Tuesdays by married women.
In Tamil Nadu and Kerala, though the term Sawan is not commonly used, the month of Aadi and Karkidakam align with similar devotional practices, especially for Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.
Scientific and Seasonal Relevance
Sawan also marks the peak of the Indian monsoon. The rains bring cooling relief after intense summer heat, symbolizing spiritual cleansing and renewal. The lush greenery, flowing rivers, and refreshed environment are seen as expressions of divine grace. Farmers sow new seeds during this period, aligning their work with the natural and spiritual cycles of life.
Mantras and Devotional Practices
Reciting mantras and hymns dedicated to Lord Shiva enhances the spiritual merit of the Sawan month. Popular chants include:
- Om Namah Shivaya
- Mahamrityunjaya Mantra
- Shiva Tandava Stotram
Devotees often visit temples for Rudrabhishek, perform jal abhishekam, and participate in group bhajans and kirtans. These spiritual activities promote inner peace and a sense of community devotion.
Sawan is more than just a month it is a spiritual season of devotion, discipline, and divine connection. The question Kab se Sawan start hai reflects the eagerness of devotees to immerse themselves in its rituals and meaning. In 2024, Sawan starts in July and brings with it sacred Mondays, holy fasts, vibrant pilgrimages, and endless opportunities for spiritual growth. Whether observed through simple prayers at home or elaborate temple rituals, the month of Sawan continues to inspire millions to reconnect with their faith and live with greater mindfulness and reverence.