ॐ नमः शिवाय
The Shravan Maas, also called Sawan (Monsoon) is the favourite month of Lord Shiva.
It is said that the famous Samudra Manthan took place in this month only. Apparently apart from the poison (Halahaal) & the tonic of life (Amrit), the churning also saw things like moon, nectar & Kamadhenu cow came out of the ocean. Halahaal, which was the great poison, was venomous enough to wipe out all the Devtas, if consumed. It was then Shiva placed the poison on his neck and came to be known as Neelkanth. It is also symbolic of the fact that one should not let negativity harm them, they should not consume the poisonous thoughts and should also not pass it onto others.
Let’s talk about a few unknown facts about this month – Shravan Maas.
1. Shravan is the fifth month in the Hindu calendar and is celebrated all over the country when people listen to sermons, devotional songs, & dance in praise of the Lord.
2. It is said that Shiva got the crescent moon on his head in this month. Cooling nature of the moon lessened the impact of the poison.
3. During this month, Shiva is prayed everyday with offerings to him, which includes milk, flowers, and Bel Patr (leaves).
4. The famous Mangala Gauri Puja is also done in the month of Shravan.
5. In terms of how this month got its name, there are many stories. Since saawan literally translates to rain, this month is known as the month of rainfall, flowers, & swings.
6. The Shravan constellation can be seen on a full moon night. It looks like the three footprints of Vamana – who was the fifth avatar of Vishnu.
7. It is said that when you look closely, you can also see the constellation as Shravan Kumar carrying his blind parents on a pilgrimage. Hence the month is called Shravan.
8. It is said that Rishi Markandeya had perfected the Mahamrityunjaya Mantra during the month of Shravan. Till date, this mantra is considered most powerful to release you from the shackles of life and death.
9. The literal meaning of the word ‘Shravan’ is ‘to hear’. It is said that all during the month, devotees should listen to devotional songs of Lord Shiva and sing songs in his praise.
10. This month is also known as ‘Avni’ in Tamil. With the start of the month of Sawan, the Sun enters Leo. It is said that each day of this month holds its own religious significance.
Festivals during the month of Sharavan:
Auspicious Hindu festivals, like Naag Panchami and Rakshabandhan falls during this month of Sharavan.
Sharavan month is filled with the fragrance of devotion for the divine. The vibrant joyfulness in nature can easily be felt. Although there are many other festivals falling within this month, Shiva remains the centre of all celebrations.
Jai Bhole – Hail Lord Shiva
ॐ नमः शिवाय