Sawan Start Date: Everything You Need to Know

Background Information on Sawan Start Date

In the Hindu calendar, the month of Sawan holds great significance and is devoted to Lord Shiva. This auspicious month is dedicated to seeking the blessings of the powerful deity, and many devotees observe various rituals and fasts during this time. Sawan, also known as Shravan, is the fifth month of the Hindu calendar and falls between July and August. The start date of Sawan varies each year according to the position of the moon and the Hindu lunisolar calendar.

Determining Sawan Start Date

The start date of Sawan is calculated based on the lunar cycle, specifically the movement of the moon in relation to the Earth. The month of Sawan begins on the first day of the new moon and ends on the full moon day. In 2021, the Sawan start date is on July 25th, Sunday, marking the beginning of this holiest of months in the Hindu calendar.

Significance of Sawan Start Date

The commencement of Sawan holds immense significance for devotees of Lord Shiva. It is believed that offering prayers and performing rituals during this time pleases the deity and brings blessings, prosperity, and fulfillment of desires. Many devotees observe fasting on Mondays, also known as “Sawan Somvar,” during this month to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva for marital harmony, health, and overall well-being.

Rituals and Traditions during Sawan

During the month of Sawan, devotees engage in various rituals and traditions to express their devotion to Lord Shiva. Some of the common practices observed during this auspicious month include:

1. Kanwar Yatra: Devotees carry holy water from the Ganges and offer it at their local Shiva temples.
2. Fasting: Many devotees observe fasts on Mondays and offer prayers to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva.
3. Abhishekam: Pouring water, milk, and other offerings on the Shiva Lingam as a form of worship.
4. Visiting Shiva temples: Devotees flock to Shiva temples to offer prayers and seek blessings.
5. Recitation of Shiva Mantras: Chanting of sacred mantras dedicated to Lord Shiva to invoke his divine grace.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. When is the Sawan start date in 2021?

2. The Sawan start date in 2021 is on July 25th, Sunday.

3. What is the significance of Sawan in Hindu mythology?

4. Sawan holds significance as the month dedicated to Lord Shiva, the supreme god of destruction and transformation in Hindu mythology.

5. Why do devotees observe fasts during Sawan?

6. Devotees observe fasts during Sawan to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva for health, wealth, and overall well-being.

7. What is Kanwar Yatra, and why is it significant during Sawan?

8. Kanwar Yatra is a pilgrimage where devotees carry holy water from the Ganges to offer at Shiva temples as a sign of devotion during Sawan.

9. How can one participate in Sawan rituals if unable to visit a Shiva temple?

10. One can participate in Sawan rituals by offering prayers, chanting mantras, and performing abhishekam at home if unable to visit a Shiva temple.

In conclusion, the start date of Sawan holds immense importance for devotees of Lord Shiva, marking the beginning of a month-long period of devotion, fasting, and prayers. Observing the rituals and traditions during Sawan is believed to bring blessings and fulfill the desires of the devotees. Whether through fasting on Mondays, visiting Shiva temples, or chanting mantras, the month of Sawan provides an opportunity for spiritual growth and seeking divine grace from Lord Shiva.