Sawan 2026: Holy month of devotion, fasting, and spiritual practice dedicated to Lord Shiva begins on July 30.
Significance of Sawan
In Hinduism, the month of Sawan (Shravan) is considered the most beloved month of Lord Shiva. Sawan 2026 will span from July 30, 2026, to August 28, 2026.
Mondays of Sawan (Sawan Somvar 2026)
August 3, 2026 – First Sawan Monday
August 10, 2026 – Second Sawan Monday
August 17, 2026 – Third Sawan Monday (coinciding with Nag Panchami)
August 24, 2026 – Fourth and final Sawan Monday
Major Festivals of Sawan
August 11 – Sawan Shivratri
August 12 – Hariyali Amavasya
August 15 – Hariyali Teej
August 17 – Nag Panchami
August 28 – Sawan Purnima / Raksha Bandhan (please verify the date according to the almanac/Panchang)
According to the Puranas, during the Samudra Manthan (Churning of the Ocean), Lord Shiva held the poison (Halahal) in His throat to protect the world. The deities offered water to Him to provide relief and coolness. For this reason, the tradition of offering water to the Shivling during Sawan holds special significance.
Sawan is also considered a month of devotion, restraint, introspection, and spiritual practice. It is believed that worship, chanting (Japa), and acts of charity performed during this month yield special spiritual rewards.
What can you do at home?
Morning Shiva Worship
After bathing, light a lamp (diya) in front of an image of Lord Shiva or a Shivling.
Offer clean water.
Offer Belpatra (wood apple leaves), Dhatura, or white flowers, if available.
Chanting Mantras
You can chant these mantras for a few minutes daily:
Om Namah Shivaya
Mahamrityunjaya Mantra
Shiva Panchakshara Stotra
Chanting 5, 11, or 108 times is sufficient.
Shiva Chalisa or Shiva Aarti
Recite the Shiva Chalisa in the evening.
Perform the “Jai Shiv Omkara” Aarti.
Monday Fast (optional)
Consume only *Phalahar* (fruit-based diet) or *Sattvic* food.
Strive to avoid anger, harsh words, and negativity.
If a full fast is not possible due to health reasons or studies, simply consuming Sattvic food is also acceptable.
Spiritual Reading
Stories from the Shiva Purana
Excerpts from the Ramcharitmanas
A chapter from the Bhagavad Gita
Reading stories related to Lord Shiva
Service and Charity
Acts of charity and meritorious deeds hold great significance during the month of Sawan:
Providing food to the needy
Placing water out for birds
Helping others
A Simple Daily Routine for Sawan
Morning:
1. Bath
2. Lighting a lamp
3. Offering water
4. Chanting “Om Namah Shivaya” 11 times
Evening:
1. Lighting a lamp
2. Reciting the Shiva Chalisa or a short prayer
3. Thanking God for the day
Remember, the essence of Sawan does not lie solely in elaborate rituals. True devotion, good deeds, self-restraint, and positive thinking are also considered forms of worshipping Lord Shiva. Chanting “Om Namah Shivaya” with a focused mind for a few minutes each day is also a beautiful spiritual practice.
ANASUYA ROY