Shravan Maas or Sawan month is considered very auspicious to the devotees of Lord Shiva. Almost everyone of them will be fasting either for the whole month or at least every Monday of the Shravan Maas. The month of July-August is considered the most auspicious in the Hindu calendar. Shravan Maas is the 5th month of the Hindu calendar and is synonymous with spiritual activities and events. It is the considered a very auspicious time for conducting any Puja or other religious ceremonies, and all days of this month are considered very prosperous for beginning any new work.
Facts about Shravan Month
Here’s a look at some must-know interesting facts about Shravan Month:
The most well known incident in Hindu mythology; the Samudra Manthan or the churning of the sea took place during the Shravan. As per ancient Hindu mythology; Samudra manthan or the churning of the sea was the joint effort of the Gods (Devatas) and the demons (Danavs). According to age old legends; the holy month of Shravan was the one during which the Gods and Demons decided to churn the ocean to decide who among them was the strongest. This was done to please Goddess Lakshmi, the Goddess of wealth. And also so that she would reward them with the nectar from the ocean. The Gods and demons had agreed to share the nectar equally among themselves. Snake Vasuki, who is depicted on Lord Shiva’s neck, and Sumeru Parvat were used for the manthan. It is said that 14 kinds of pious things came out of the ocean. An innumerable amount of gems and jewels along with the poison (Halahal) came out of the sea. But the demons and the Gods were unsure of what to do with the poison, as it had the ability to destroy everything. Lord Shiva then came to the rescue and stored this poison in his throat, which became blue. Hence earning the name Neelkanth. Lord Shiva gave life to everyone in this world by drinking the destructive poison. This is why this entire month is dedicated to him and is considered very auspicious.
Lord Shiva got the crescent moon on his head during this time. The impact of this poison was so strong that Lord Shiva had to wear a crescent moon of his head and all the Gods started offering him the holy water from the river Ganges, so that poison is tamed. As these events took place during this month, that is why this moth is considered highly propitious.
Devotees fast to please Lord Shiva: Fasting during shravan month is considered very auspicious. Waking up early morning, visiting the Shiva temple, and offering a mixture of milk, ghee, yogurt, gangajal, and honey also known as Panchamrut along with Bilva leaves is a must. One can have milk and milk products, fruits and other fasting approved items during this time.
Literal meaning of the word “Shravan” means “to hear”. It is said that during this pious month; all devotees should listen to religious and spiritual discourse, noble words and sermons.
The Shravan constellation can be seen during this period on a full moon night. This day is also known as Shravan Purnima.