Mythological Background
Shravan (also called Sawan) is the fifth month of the Hindu calendar and is considered the holiest for worshipping Lord Shiva. It is believed that during this time, the cosmos radiates powerful spiritual energy as celestial alignments favor divine awakening. According to legend, this month commemorates the Samudra Manthan, where Lord Shiva consumed deadly poison (Halahala) to save the universe, earning immense reverence from devotees.
Why It’s Considered Holy for Lord Shiva
Shravan is synonymous with Shiva devotion. Every Monday (Shravan Somwar) is observed with special pujas and fasting to seek blessings, purification, and inner strength. It's the best time to connect spiritually with the destroyer and protector—Mahadev himself.
Start and End Dates
In 2025, the Shravan month is expected to begin on July 25, 2025, and end on August 23, 2025, based on the North Indian Purnimant calendar. The South Indian Amavasyant calendar may differ slightly by a day or two.
Special Mondays (Shravan Somwar)
Devotees observe fasts and offer Shivamuth on these Mondays:
Each Monday brings a unique spiritual energy, especially when it falls on Pradosh Vrat or other auspicious tithis.
Meaning of ‘Shivamuth’
‘Shivamuth’ refers to the collective offering made to Lord Shiva, especially during Shravan. The word signifies a sacred handful of items offered with devotion—including water, milk, belpatra (bilva leaves), dhatura, and white flowers.
Spiritual Beliefs and Regional Variations
Different regions offer unique forms of Shivamuth. In Maharashtra, people add coconut water and rice grains. In North India, Kanwariyas carry Gangajal to pour on Shiva Lingams, often walking barefoot for miles.
Traditional Offerings to Lord Shiva
Shivamuth Jalabhishek Process
Types of Shravan Vrat
Sattvik Foods for Devotees
Allowed foods include:
Avoid:
Top Shiva Temples in India
Local Shrines with Special Celebrations
Almost every village and town has a Shiva temple hosting unique festivities like Rudrabhishek, bhajan nights, and community pujas during Shravan.
Planetary Movements and Energies
Shravan coincides with the transit of the Moon through the Shravan Nakshatra. It is believed that the lunar influence during this time enhances meditation, devotion, and inner clarity.
Spiritual Benefits of Fasting
Modern science acknowledges that intermittent fasting can detoxify the body and improve mental focus—aligning perfectly with the spiritual goals of Shravan Vrat.
| Week | Shravan Somwar | Key Observance |
|---|---|---|
| Week 1 | July 28 | Shravan Start + First Shivamuth |
| Week 2 | August 4 | Somwar Vrat + Pradosh Vrat |
| Week 3 | August 11 | Ekadashi + Shivamuth |
| Week 4 | August 18 | Final Somwar + Shravan Purnima |
Lifestyle Tips for Devotees
Do:
Don’t:
Kanwar Yatra Significance
A major event in Northern India, where millions of Kanwariyas walk barefoot carrying sacred water to Shiva temples—especially Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Gaumukh.
South Indian Shravan Traditions
In Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, Mondays are marked by temple processions, flower garlands, and archana rituals for Lord Shiva and Parvati.
Popular Shiva Mantras
Q1: When does Shravan Month start in 2025?
It starts on July 25, 2025 (may vary regionally).
Q2: What is the spiritual significance of Shivamuth?
It symbolizes pure devotion and self-surrender to Lord Shiva.
Q3: Can women perform Shivamuth rituals?
Yes, absolutely. Women can offer Jalabhishek, fast, and chant mantras.
Q4: Is onion and garlic allowed during Shravan?
No, it's traditionally avoided to maintain sattvik purity.
Q5: What should be offered to Lord Shiva during Jalabhishek?
Water, milk, bel leaves, dhatura, sandalwood paste, and flowers.
Q6: Can I travel during Shravan Month while observing fast?
Yes, as long as you maintain your vrat rules and spiritual practices.
