Shravan Maas begins: sacred simplicity and devotion

Shravan Maas (also called Sawan in many parts of India) is considered one of the most auspicious and spiritually uplifting months in the Hindu calendar. This month is dedicated to Lord Shiva, during which devotees slow down, and practice devotion sincerely and simply.

Every year, the month of Shravan Maas falls between July and August depending on the lunar calendar. In 2025, Shravan Maas will start on Friday July 11th and end on Sunday August 10th in most parts of India (North India). However, in South India the dates will vary slightly according to different lunar calculations. Always check your local calendar or ask your temple priest for exact local dates.

Why is Shravan Month Special?

Shravan is the fifth month of the Hindu Lunisolar Calendar. It is believed to be very auspicious for worshiping Lord Shiva, especially on Mondays (Somvar). There are several myths, stories, and customs surrounding this ambiance. 

One of the most important stories comes from the Samudra Manthan. As they were churning the ocean, deadly poison called halahal emerged. In order to save the world, Lord Shiva drank the poison and held it in his throat (where it turned blue). Therefore he is called Neelkanth or blue-throated. Worshipping Shiva in Shravan gives devotees good will from Shiva, especially from his sacrifice in this month.

When Does Shravan End in 2025?

• In North India (using the Purnimanta calendar), Shravan Maas ends on August 10, 2025 (Sunday).

• In South India (using the Amavasyant calendar), the month may be a little different (beginning and ending). In Tamil Nadu and Kerala, this period is sometimes recognized with different names (Aadi/Karkidakam).

What is Shravan Somvar Vrat?

During the months of Shravan, Mondays are particularly important because it is believed to be Lord Shiva's favourite day. During the month, many devotees observe Somvar Vrat (Monday fasting). It is a way to be connected with Shiva through a few simple rituals and fasting.

Most people do this vrat for:

• Seeking blessings for a peaceful and happy life

• Finding a good life partner (many unmarried women do this vrat so that they get married)

• Finding inner peace and for spiritual growth

How to Do Shravan Somavar Vrat? 

There is nothing so complicated about this vrat. Rather it is a matter of discipline and devotion.

Here are some simple steps: 

• Wake up early, as early as you can. Preferably during Brahma Muhurat (between 4:00 AM - 6:00 AM).

• Take a bath and put on clean clothes (preferably white or light colored).

• Clean your puja space and place a photo or murti of Lord Shiva.

• If possible, offer water or milk on a Shivling. (could also offer bel patra, white flowers, dhatura or fruits). 

• Light a diya, incense sticks, and chant "Om Namah Shivya" 

• Recite or listen to Shiva Chalisa or do a simple Shiva mantra jaap. 

• Observe fast:  You can do a full fast on only water, or fruit only fast, or eat only one simple meal without onion and garlic.

• Break your fast after sunset with a simple prayer and light food (if doing a partial fast).

Shravan Month Fasting Rules

It is very normal to fast during Shravan, especially on Mondays. Some devotees will fast all 30 days of Shravan, while other devotees will only fast on Mondays or on special days in Shravan such as Pradosh Vrat, Nag Panchami, or Rakhi.

Here is a basic list of dos and don'ts with eating and fasting during Shravan:

You can eat:

• Fruits (banana, apple, papaya, etc.)

• Dairy (curd, buttermilk, paneer) 

• Sabudana (tapioca), Singhara (water chestnut), Rajgira (amaranth), Kuttu (buckwheat)

• Potatoes and sweet potatoes

• Rock salt (sendha namak)

Don't eat:

• Non-veg and alcohol

• Onion and garlic 

• Salt (rock salt only)

• Grains and pulses (wheat, rice, dal) 

• Processed & fried foods

A few people also choose to avoid eating outside foods, which is a way of staying pure and reconnecting back to nature during Shravan.

What is the Importance of the Shravan Month?

Here’s why people treat Shravan as a special time every year:

It’s Spiritually Uplifting

This month is said to amplify anything you do this month: prayers, fasting or simply good acts, by 10 times. So people try to speak good, donate, help others, or be less negative.

Best for your Introspection

In ancient times, it was monsoon season during Shravan, so people would remain indoors anyway. So it became a natural time to stop, think, and collect oneself towards the higher. Either way, you still have this month to slow down.

The Earth is Alive

Shravan is all green and fresh. It is a time when it is said that the Earth itself worships Shiva by displaying flowers, flowing rivers, and rain. This is why devotees use fresh flowers, leaves, and water in their pujas.

Key Days in Shravan Month 2025

Here are a few important days to keep in mind:

Shravan Somvar Vrats: July 14, 21, 28 & August 4, 2025 (Mondays)

Nag Panchami: July 27, 2025

Rakhi / Raksha Bandhan: August 10, 2025

Shravan Purnima (Full Moon and End of Shravan): August 10, 2025

Shravan for Women and Girls

Many unmarried women fast during Shravan Somvars to pray for a good life partner, often inspired by the story of Goddess Parvati’s devotion to Shiva. Married women also observe these fasts for the well-being of their families.

But Shravan is not just about fasting or rituals. It's also about finding peace, purpose, and devotion in everyday life.

Do You Need to Fast to Celebrate Shravan?

No. Fasting is one way to show devotion, but not the only way. If you’re not able to fast for health or other reasons, you can still:

• Visit a Shiva temple on Mondays

• Offer simple flowers and water

• Read spiritual texts or chant Shiva mantras

• Practice kindness, silence, and self-control

• Even small, sincere efforts matter.

Conclusion 

Shravan Maas is a reminder that spirituality doesn't need to be loud. It can be quiet, simple, and personal. Whether that's chanting mantras, lighting a lamp, or simply sitting in silence for a few minutes each day, the focus is on your intent. This month is not about strict guidelines; it is about love and gratitude to life, nature, and Lord Shiva.

If you are looking for pure and authentic puja essentials to use, Cycle.in offers everything you need for this sacred time. They can provide you with incense sticks, camphor, puja thalis, and natural dhoop to make your prayers peaceful and authentic.