Shravan: The Holiest Month of Lord Shiva
Shravan (also Sawan) is the fifth month of the Hindu lunar calendar and the holiest month for Lord Shiva worship. Observed in July-August, it is marked by Shravan Somvar (Monday) fasts, the Kanwar Yatra pilgrimage, Nag Panchami, Hariyali Teej, and intense Shiva devotion across all of India.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Shravan month in 2026?
Shravan month 2026 runs from July 18 to August 16, 2026 in North India (Purnimant calendar). In South India (Amavasyant calendar), it is July 3 to August 1, 2026.
Why is Shravan sacred to Lord Shiva?
According to Hindu mythology, during the Samudra Manthan, the deadly poison Halahala emerged and threatened all creation. Shiva drank it to save the universe. The gods poured cool Ganges water over him in the month of Shravan, and since then, Shiva is propitiated with Ganga jal and bilva patra throughout Shravan.
What is the Shravan Somvar fast?
Shravan Somvar (Monday) fasts are observed throughout the month for Lord Shiva's blessings. Devotees fast from morning to evening, visit Shiva temples, offer milk and bilva leaves, and chant Om Namah Shivaya. There are 4-5 Shravan Mondays each year.
What is the Kanwar Yatra?
Kanwar Yatra is one of the world's largest pilgrimages, held in Shravan. Millions of Kanwariyas (saffron-clad devotees) walk hundreds of kilometers to collect sacred Ganges water and offer it to local Shivalingams. Major routes include Haridwar and Sultanganj.
What festivals occur in Shravan?
Major Shravan festivals: Shravan Somvar (all Mondays), Hariyali Teej (Shukla Tritiya), Nag Panchami (Shukla Panchami), Shravan Shivratri (Krishna Chaturdashi), and Shravan Purnima (Raksha Bandhan area).
What is the Shravan Shivratri and when does it occur?
Shravan Shivratri (Maas Shivratri) is the monthly Shivratri (Krishna Paksha Chaturdashi) occurring in the month of Shravan. In 2026, it falls around August 12. While Maha Shivratri (February) is the grandest Shivratri, the Shravan Shivratri is equally significant as it occurs in Shiva's own month. Devotees fast and observe all-night vigils at Shiva temples on this night.
What vegetables are avoided in Shravan by region?
Regional Shravan food restrictions: North India: Brinjal (associated with Saturn/Rahu) is avoided by many; some avoid all leafy greens. Maharashtra: Brinjal, long beans, green leafy vegetables, and cluster beans are avoided the entire month. South India: Generally fewer restrictions, but Mondays observed with sattvic food only. Gujarat: Monday fasts with avoidance of grains. The restrictions vary significantly by family tradition.
What is the spiritual significance of Kanwar Yatra distance?
Some Kanwar pilgrims walk 200+ km from Haridwar to their home towns, carrying sacred Ganges water throughout. The physical hardship is seen as tapasya (austerity) that purifies karma. 'Dak Kanwar' is a form where devotees run the entire distance (sometimes 200+ km) without stopping or sleeping, completing it in 24-48 hours. This extreme form of devotion is considered most meritorious.
Are there famous Shiva temples to visit in Shravan?
Famous Shiva pilgrimage sites especially visited in Shravan: Kedarnath (Uttarakhand), Mahakaleshwar (Ujjain), Somnath (Gujarat), Kashi Vishwanath (Varanasi), Ramanathaswamy (Rameswaram), Bhimashankar (Maharashtra), and all 12 Jyotirlinga temples. Each Jyotirlinga has its unique significance and the Shravan pilgrimage to even one is considered highly meritorious.