Shravan or saavan is revered as the most sacred month, often referred to as the month of festivals. Each day of this month holds significant spiritual importance, making it an ideal time for fasting, worship, and devotion. Among these days, the new moon day of Shravan month, known as Hariyali Amavasya or Somvati Amavasya, stands out for its profound benefits and ancient traditions.
The Importance of Hariyali Amavasya
Hariyali Amavasya, also called Somvati Amavasya, is a day dedicated to the worship of trees and plants, particularly the Peepal and Tulsi plants. In Hinduism, the Peepal tree is believed to be the abode of Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh, making it highly auspicious. Planting trees on this day is considered to bring happiness, peace, and prosperity to one’s home. Additionally, fasting on this day is believed to provide peace to the souls of ancestors, ensuring their blessings upon the family.
Worship Rituals for Shravan Amavasya
- Morning Bath: Begin the day with a bath in the Ganges or any holy river. If this is not possible, mix a little Ganga water with your regular bath water and bathe before sunrise.
- Cleanse and Prepare: Wear clean white or yellow clothes. Light a lamp of pure cow ghee in your place of worship.
- Offerings to the Sun God: Offer water to the Sun God and then pour it into the Tulsi plant.
- Shiva and Parvati Worship: Follow traditional rituals to worship Lord Shiva and Mother Parvati. Offer Bhaang, Dhatura, fruits, flowers, Belpatra, and Gangajal mixed in milk to Lord Shiva. Chant Shiva’s mantras and the Mahamrityunjaya mantra at least 108 times throughout the day.
- Fasting: Observe a fast, preferably without eating any food, to enhance spiritual benefits.
The Legend of Hariyali Amavasya
According to an ancient story, a mighty king once ruled a kingdom with his son and daughter-in-law. One day, the daughter-in-law falsely accused a rat of stealing sweets she had taken. The rat, seeking revenge, hid the daughter-in-law’s saree in a guest room where the king’s guests were staying. Discovering this, the king expelled his daughter-in-law from the palace.
Living in the forest, the daughter-in-law lit lamps every evening and grew millet. One day, the king, passing through the forest, noticed the bright lamps. Intrigued, he sent soldiers to investigate. The soldiers found that the lamps were conversing and discovered the truth from one lamp that revealed the daughter’s innocence. Regretting his actions, the king brought his daughter-in-law back to the palace, restoring happiness.
Shravan Amavasya, or Hariyali Amavasya, is a day steeped in religious significance and ancient traditions. Celebrated on the new moon day of Shravan month, it is a time for profound worship, fasting, and honoring ancestors. By observing the rituals and understanding the legends associated with this day, devotees can deepen their spiritual connection and invite divine blessings into their lives.