The month of Sawan holds immense significance in the Hindu calendar, and its arrival in 2023 brings a sense of devotion and spirituality. Known as the month of Lord Shiva, millions of devotees worldwide eagerly await Sawan. In this article, we will explore the dates and historical significance of Sawan in 2023, including the auspicious day of Somvaar (Monday), which holds a special place in the hearts of Shiva devotees.
Dates of Sawan 2023:
This festival, known as Shravan, is dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati Sawan 2023 and will commence on July 4 to August 31, 2023. The month of Sawan usually falls during the monsoon season, bringing a refreshing and rejuvenating ambiance that further enhances the spiritual experience.
Importance of Somvaar in Sawan:
Sawan Somvaar, or Monday, holds great significance for Lord Shiva devotees. Devotees believe that worshiping Lord Shiva on Mondays during the Sawan month brings blessings, good fortune, and fulfillment of wishes. Devotees observe fasts, visit Shiva temples, and perform various rituals to seek the deity’s blessings.
Historical Significance of Sawan:
Sawan has a rich history rooted in Hindu mythology. According to legend, during the churning of the cosmic ocean (Samudra Manthan), a pot of poison (halahala) emerged, threatening to destroy the world. In his benevolence, Lord Shiva consumed the poison to protect the universe. To ease the burning sensation caused by the poison, devotees offered Lord Shiva the cooling and soothing waters of the Ganges River. This devotion is believed to have occurred in the month of Sawan.
Rituals and Practices during Sawan:
Devotees observe various rituals and practices during the Sawan month to express their devotion to Lord Shiva. These rituals include taking holy dips in rivers, especially the Ganges, offering milk and water to Shiva lingams, reciting prayers and hymns, and performing abhisheka (ritual baths) with sacred water, milk, honey, and other promising substances.
Sawan in Different Regions
While people celebrate Sawan throughout India, it holds particular prominence in the northern parts of the country. In states like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Uttarakhand, devotees undertake Kanwar Yatra, a pilgrimage where they carry water from the Ganges to offer it to Lord Shiva. This yatra is a way to seek blessings and experience spiritual transformation.
Sawan 2023 offers a month filled with devotion, rituals, and a deep spiritual hunger for devotees. The Mondays of Sawan hold a special significance, as devotees express their love and reverence for Lord Shiva. Devotees seek blessings, purification, and spiritual enlightenment by participating in the rituals and practices associated with this sacred month. Let us embrace this divine period with reverence and joy and experience the deep spiritual connection that Sawan brings.
