Sawan 2022: Month Dedicated To Lord Shiva — All You Need To Know

The ‘Shaivites’ or ‘Saivas’ (followers of Lord Shiva) from all across the country perform numerous rituals to express their devotion to Mahadev.

Kanwariyas in Gurugram

Source : PTI

Sawan 2022: The holy month of ‘Sawan’ or ‘Shravana’ has multiple significances. Known as the fifth month of the Hindu calendar, this month is solely dedicated to Lord Shiva. The ‘Shaivites’ or ‘Saivas’ (followers of Lord Shiva) from all across the country perform numerous rituals to express their devotion to Mahadev during this month. 

Another thing that makes the month of Sawan more auspicious is the ‘Kanwariyas’ chanting holy rhymes, holding ‘Kanwars’, and walking barefoot. 

Rituals Performed Under Kanwar Yatra

Shiva-Bhaktas decide to take a holy pilgrimage called 'Kanwar Yatra', in which they carry Kanwar (walking sticks to hang the urns of water) and they are called Kanwariyas. Their pilgrimage commences with heading towards the river Ganga and fetching Gangajal and concludes with the offerings of the Gangajal to Lord Shiva in their home towns. 

Why Do People Go On Kanwar Yatras? 

There can be numerous reasons to participate in this yatra for a person. One can be on this yatra for spiritual attainment of satisfaction, or due to a ‘mannat’, something one might want for a long and he/she believes could be fulfilled by doing this ritual. Many Kanwariyas also use Sawan month to take a break from their schedule and indulge in the ocean of devotion and spirituality. 

Month Of Sawan Dedicated To Lord Shiva 

The priests of the Daksheshvar Mahadev Temple, Haridwar, say that “it is believed that Lord Shiva comes to live with his in-laws for the whole month of Sawan along with Goddess Parvati. He made a promise to King Daksha that he would come and live with him for the month of Sawan, this temple is also named after Prajapati Daksha, Daksheshwar Mahadev.”

It is also believed that Mahadev saved the world by consuming all the poison that came out of the Samdramanthan in this month of Sawan. And hence, devotees offer prayers to Lord Shiva for good health and fortune.

Significance Of Somvar During Sawan

‘Somvar’ (Monday) is usually dedicated to Lord Shiva, and during the month of Sawan, significantly devoted to Lord Shiva, the importance of ‘Sawan ka Somvar’ becomes greater. 

In the Hindu religion, it is believed that fasting on Somvar of Sawan is beneficial for unmarried girls as this helps them to find the right kind of husband.