UP: Devotees throng Lord Shiva temple on 2nd Monday of Sawan in Gorakhpur

Gorakhpur (Uttar Pradesh) July 29 (ANI): Devotees in large numbers offered prayers at Lord Shiva Temple in Gorakhpur on the second Monday of ‘Sawan’ on July 29.  Sawan holds a special place in Hindu mythology as the month when Lord Shiva is believed to have consumed the poison that emerged from the churning of the ocean (Samudra Manthan), saving the universe from its toxic effects.  Devotees undertake fasting and offer prayers to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva during this period. The cooling rains of Sawan are symbolic of Shiva's compassion and benevolence. During Sawan, devotees typically observe fasts on Mondays, which are considered auspicious. Many choose to abstain from consuming grains and eat only fruits, milk, and specific foods permissible during fasting. The chanting of Shiva mantras, singing bhajans (devotional songs), and performing Rudrabhishek (ceremonial bathing of Shiva Lingam with holy substances) are common practices observed with fervour across households and temples. This year Sawan begins on July 22, Monday and ends on Monday, August 19.