Sawan

Sawan, also known as Shravana, is the fifth month of the Hindu lunisolar calendar. It falls between July and August in the Gregorian calendar. This month is highly significant in Hinduism, often considered auspicious and dedicated to the worship of Lord Shiva. The monsoons typically arrive during Sawan, bringing much-needed rain to the Indian subcontinent, which is reflected in the name "Sawan" itself, derived from the Sanskrit word for monsoon.

Sawan is characterized by various religious observances and festivals. The most prominent among them is the worship of Lord Shiva, with devotees often observing fasts, offering water and Bilva leaves to Shiva Lingams, and chanting mantras. Kanwar Yatra, a pilgrimage where devotees carry holy water from the Ganges River to Shiva temples, is a major event during this month. Many people also observe a special fast every Monday of Sawan, known as Sawan Somvar Vrat. Besides Shiva worship, Sawan also sees celebrations like Hariyali Teej, dedicated to Goddess Parvati, and Raksha Bandhan, a festival celebrating the bond between siblings. The verdant landscapes brought about by the monsoon rains add to the spiritual and festive atmosphere of Sawan.