The month of Shravan, the most sacred in Hindu Sanatan Dharma, is a time when devotees draw closer to God. Shravan is a month dedicated to fasting and praising divine qualities, where deep devotion to Vedic rituals like worship and sacrifice can lead to the fulfillment of all desires without even asking. The scriptures extol the profound glory of this month, during which Lord Shiva is said to reside on earth, visiting his in-laws. Devotees who worship Bhole Bhandari (Lord Shiva) and Maa Parvati with a sincere heart find their wishes fulfilled.
However, many people are unsure how to properly observe the Sawan Monday fast. In this article, we will explore the glory of the Shravan Monday fast, how to perform it correctly, and the benefits it brings. By understanding and following these practices, you too can receive the grace of Lord Bholenath.
Shravan Monday Vrat and Puja Materials
To perform the Shravan Monday fast, you will need the following materials:
- Water, milk, yogurt, sugar, ghee, honey, and Panchamrit
- Mauli (sacred thread), clothes, janu (sacred thread for men), sandalwood, roli (red powder), rice, flowers, vine leaves, cannabis, aak-dhatura (a sacred plant), lotus gatta (lotus seeds), prasad (offering), pan-supari (betel leaves and nuts), clove, cardamom, and fruits
Ensure that all ingredients are pure and clean.
How to Start the Shravan Monday Fast
Shravan Monday is dedicated to the worship of Lord Shiva. Begin the fast by performing a water abhishek (ritual bathing) on the Shivling (symbol of Shiva) with Ganga water at home or in a temple. Follow this by offering Panchamrit to Lord Shiva.
Using three fingers of your right hand, apply white sandalwood to make a tripund (three horizontal lines) on the Shivling. Offer the remaining worship materials. After completing the fast, it is important to worship Lord Ganesha, Lord Shiva, Mother Parvati, and Nandi Dev.
Offerings to Lord Bhole Nath
Lord Shiva is pleased by offerings such as halwa (a sweet dish), yogurt, cannabis, Panchamrit, honey, milk, white barfi (a sweet made of condensed milk), malpua (a sweet pancake), thandai (a cold drink), lassi (a yogurt-based drink), and dried fruits.
Recite the Mahamrityunjaya Mantra
Recitation of the Mahamrityunjaya Mantra is an integral part of the Shravan Monday fast.
- “Om Houm Juum Sah Om Bhurbhuvah Swah Om” Tryambakam Yajamahe Sugandhim Pushtivardhanam Urvarukamiva Bandhanan Mrityor Mukshiya Maamritat “Om Swah Bhuvah Bhuh Om Sah Juum Houm Om”. (ॐ हौं जूं सः ॐ भूर्भुवः स्वः ॐ त्र्यम्बकं यजामहे सुगन्धिं पुष्टिवर्धनम् उर्वारुकमिव बन्धनान्मृत्योर्मुक्षीय मामृतात् ॐ स्वः भुवः भूः ॐ सः जूं हौं ॐ)
- Om Namah Shivay (ॐ नमः शिवाय )
Rules of Shravan Monday Vrat
According to religious beliefs, the Sawan Monday fast should be observed by consuming only fruits and avoiding regular meals. After waking up and bathing in the morning, perform a Jalabhishek of Lord Shiva. Offer milk, Ganga water, honey, ghee, akshat (uncooked rice), and vine leaves to Bholenath.
During the fast, avoid sleeping during the day and refrain from watching TV or movies. Instead, spend the day reciting religious scriptures and worshiping Lord Shiva. Additionally, avoid consuming tea and coffee during the fast.
By following these guidelines and dedicating your mind and heart to the worship of Lord Shiva, you can experience the profound benefits and blessings of the Shravan Monday fast.
Om Namah Shivaya