Sawan 2023; Significance, history of 'Sawan' month in Hindu calendar; Things you should know about your religion!

The beginning of 'Sawan' is almost here and we writers, can't wait to deliver you some very unaware facts about your own religion. You might have always wondered numerous questions about the festivity! Do You know why it is so significant in the Hindu calendar? Why it is celebrated? How it all started? I am talking about every possible question that might delve into your mind in the holy month's beginning. 

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— Kamal Dabas 🇮🇳 (@Kamal_0204) July 3, 2023

'Sawan' 2023

It is a holy month of religious festivity celebrated every year during the 'Sawan' month of the year. The month which is starting from just tomorrow, Tuesday, July 04, 2023. However, it is something special this time i.e. the festivity will last for two months. Yes, you heard it correct! The rare event is occurring after two decades which is elongated due to the inclusion of the month 'Malamas.' Malamas is basically an additional month in the Hindu lunar calendar to balance out the synchronization with the Lunar cycle. 

Lord Shiva and Parvati

Usually 'Sawan' is the month where we dedicate our believes and prayers to Lord Shiv and Parvati under which four Mondays and four Tuesdays are dedicated to both of them individually. However with an installment of an extra month, this year, it will be extended with eight Mondays and eight Tuesdays. 

Why it is celebrated?

The reason is very closely intact with the lord Shiva and one of his most influential tale. It is said, during the period of 'Samudra Manthan' he drank off the poison which later was rescued by goddess Parvati. While during the process, Parvati held his neck and tried to save him but ultimately resulted in further pain and injuries to the lord. 

How it is celebrated?

It is a celebration of religious grandeur in the country and even outside India. Devotees flock around the Shiva shrines to offer waters to the Shiva Linga specially 'Ganga' so his terrifying wounds could heal. People often keep fasts on Mondays which is commonly known as 'Shravan Shomvar Vrats'. Meanwhile, people who are devotees of Parvati also keep fasts on the Tuesdays which is known as 'Mangal Gauri Vrat.' People visit temples, pray the lord for prosperity, enlightenment and wellbeing by showering water, milk, flowers, leaves and fruits. People even walk on their bare feet to reach the temple premises that might vary from few kilometers to hundreds of Kilometer. 

The festival has an intriguing role in the Hindu lunar calendar and it is also considered the purest and holiest month of Hinduism.

- PTC PUNJABI