Importance of Shravan Month in Hindu Religion

 

Unlocking the Sacred Power of Shravan Month in Hindu Religion

Shravan Month - A Time of Divine Celebrations

Shravan, also known as Shravana or Sawan, holds a significant place in the hearts of Hindus in India and Nepal. This holy month, falling in the July-August period of the Georgian calendar is dedicated to the worship of Lord Shiva, the God of destruction. The month is considered auspicious and is observed with various religious ceremonies and fasting.

Importance of Shravan Month

Shravan is a highly revered month in the Hindu calendar, and it is associated with the arrival of the southwest monsoons, bringing much-needed relief from the scorching heat. Devotees believe that Lord Shiva is easily pleased with simple worship, and thus, he is often referred to as Ashutosh, the one who is easily pleased.

Festivals and Rituals

Throughout Shravan, numerous festivals and rituals are celebrated with great enthusiasm across India and Nepal. Some of the notable ones include:

1. Raksha Bandhan: Celebrated on Shravana Purnima, this festival symbolizes the bond of love between brothers and sisters.                                                                         
2. Amarnath Yatra: The annual pilgrimage to the Amarnath cave in the Himalayas culminates on Shravana Purnima.                                                                       
3. Nag Panchami: On the fifth day after Amavasya (new moon), snakes are worshipped in many parts of India, including Jammu and Karnataka.                       
4. Krishna Janmashtami: The birth of Lord Krishna is celebrated on the eighth day after the full moon.                                                                                                                     
5. Avani Avittam: Observed in southern and central parts of India, this ritual is performed on Shravana Purnima.                                                                                            
6. Balram's Birthday: Celebrated on Shravana Purnima in some regions.                            
7. Kajari Purnima: Celebrated in central parts of India like Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Jharkhand.                                                                                                      
8. Gamha Purnima: Celebrated on Shravana Purnima in certain regions.                       
9. Shravani Mela: A major festival at Deoghar in Jharkhand, where pilgrims bring holy water from the Ganges on foot.                                                                           
10. Kanwar Yatra: Devotees of Lord Shiva undertake this pilgrimage to fetch holy water from the Ganges.

Auspicious Significance

Shravan month is synonymous with auspiciousness, making it an ideal time for important religious ceremonies and beginnings. Lord Shiva is the ruling deity of this month, and special prayers and offerings are made to Him every Monday, known as Shravan Somvar.

The Legend of Samundra Manthan

According to the Puranas, the churning of the milky ocean, Samundra Manthan, took place during the month of Shravan. This significant episode is held in high regard by devout devotees of Lord Shiva.

Conclusion

Shravan month carries immense significance for Hindus worldwide. The devotion and celebrations during this time create an atmosphere of spiritual fervor and unity. With its association with Lord Shiva and various festivities, Shravan remains a deeply cherished and holy period in the Hindu Calendar.