Why Sawan is special
Sawan, or Shravan, is the month of the Hindu calendar dedicated to Lord Shiva. Devotees offer water to the Shiva lingam, observe fasts on Mondays (Sawan Somvar) and visit Shiva temples. Dates differ between the purnimanta and amanta calendars used in different regions, so check your local panchang.
Puja samagri list
- Shiva lingam or Shiva idol, on a clean base.
- A brass or copper lota (vessel) for water.
- Milk, curd, honey, ghee and sugar for panchamrit (optional).
- Bilva (bel) leaves, white flowers, dhatura (optional).
- Sandalwood paste, akshat (rice), fruits and sweets.
- A diya, incense, camphor and a kapoor dani.
Simple step-by-step vidhi
- Bathe and wear clean clothes; clean the mandir.
- Light the diya and incense, and take a sankalp (intention).
- Offer water to the lingam slowly, chanting "Om Namah Shivaya".
- If you wish, offer milk or panchamrit, then water again.
- Wipe the lingam, apply sandalwood, and offer bilva leaves and flowers.
- Offer fruits and sweets, do aarti with camphor, and end with a prayer.
Sawan Somvar fast basics
Fasting customs vary widely. Some devotees eat one meal, others only fruits and milk, and many avoid grains, onion and garlic. If you have health conditions, consult your doctor and keep a lighter version of the fast.
The significance of bilva leaves
Bilva (bel) leaves are especially dear to Lord Shiva. A trifoliate (three-part) leaf is traditionally associated with Shiva's three eyes and with the trinity. Offer fresh, unbroken leaves with the smooth side touching the lingam, and many devotees write "Om" or "Ram" on them with sandalwood. If fresh leaves are not available, washed leaves offered earlier can be reused according to many traditions.
Setting up a Shiva corner
A stone Shiva lingam suits daily abhishekam; a brass antique Lord Shiva or Adiyogi idol makes a striking focal point. Read our Shiva lingam at home guide for placement.
