Shravan Maas
Shravan is the fifth month of the Hindu calendar counted from Chaitra,which is the most auspicious month of the Chaturmas.During this period,the star 'Shravan' rules the sky, hence the month is called Shravan. Shravan is the holiest month of the year.In this month there are many festivals and ceremonies and almost all the days of this month are very auspicious.
Every Monday of this month,is called as Shravani Somvar, is a very auspicious day of Lord Shiva.In Shiva temples the Dharanatra hangs over the Shiv-ling ,for 'abhishek',ie to bathe it with milk and holy water.The Shiv-ling is worshipped by offering Bel leaves and flowers,while chanting the Shiva mantra.Devotees observe a fast till sunset.
Rituals Of Shravan Maas
On a sacred Monday,start a fast(from 12 midnight) and take a sacred bath.Pour milk and sacred water on the Shiv-ling and start the 'abhishek' by chanting Shiv-Mantrs.Apply vibhuti on the forehead after offering to Shiva.
Pile up the Bel leaves and white flowers on the Ling and offer 'Panchamrit'(Yoghurt,milk,honey, jaggery and pure butter).Chant the Maha Mrityunjay Mantra,Shiva-Chalisa and Mantras.Offer sweets,fruits to Shiva as 'Prasad' and chant Shiv-Arti by ringing the bell.
Distribute ths Prasad to the people present over there.End the fast on sunset and eat vegetarian food without garlic and onion.Full day continue the Japnam ie chanting of Shiv-mantra or Names of Shiva,with a rosery (mala of beeds)of Rudraksha.By observing all such Shravan Somvar,the worship of whole year is supposed to be complete.
Festivals in Shravan Month
All the festivals in the month of Shravan are celebrated with special rituals and customs.
- Nag Panchami,
- Kalky-avatara,
- Putradaikadashi,
- Hindola or Swinging,
- Narali Poornima,
- Shravani Poornima,
- Pavitraropana,
- Raksha Bandhan,
- Vara Lakshmi Vrata,
- Rishi Panchami,
- Govatsa and Bahula,
- Shitala Saptmi,
- Janmashtami,
- Ajaikadasi,
- Pithori Pola
Shravani Days
In the month of Shravan every day has a special significance and ritual.
Shravan Monday
This is the day of Lord Shiva.
Shravan Tuesday
On this day Mata Gauri is worshipped by women.
Shravan Wednesday
This day is dedicated to Vitthal,a form of Vishnu.
Shravan Thursday
Worship of Buddha and Guru(Teacher)
Shravan Friday
Worship of Mata Lakshmi and Tulsi.
Shravan Saturday
The day of planet,Saturn (Shani)whichis known as Sampat Shanivar (Wealth Saturday).
Sundays
The Sun is worshiped every day.
