SHRAVANA MASAM

 Shravana, the fifth month in the Hindu lunar calendar, typically falls in July or August in the Gregorian calendar. This month is of great religious significance, especially in the worship of Lord Shiva. Let's delve deeper into the meaning and importance of Shravana:


1. **Lord Shiva's Month**: 

Shravana is sometimes referred to as "Sawan," and it is known as the month of Lord Shiva. Devotees believe that worshiping Lord Shiva during this time brings special blessings and spiritual growth.


2. **Mondays Dedicated to Lord Shiva**: 

Each Monday (Somvar) in the month of Shravana is considered highly auspicious for the worship of Lord Shiva. Devotees fast, visit Shiva temples, offer prayers, and perform abhishek (ritual bathing) of Shiva Lingam.


3. **Hariyali Teej**:

 The festival of Hariyali Teej is often celebrated during Shravana. It's a women-centric festival where married women fast for the well-being and longevity of their husbands. Unmarried girls pray for a good spouse.


4. **Raksha Bandhan**: 

Shravana is also the month of Raksha Bandhan, a festival celebrating the bond between brothers and sisters. Sisters tie rakhi (a sacred thread) on their brothers' wrists, and brothers pledge to protect their sisters.


5. **Nag Panchami**: 

The festival of Nag Panchami is celebrated during Shravana. It is a day when serpents, especially the cobra, are worshiped, and people seek protection from snakebites.


6. **Religious Pilgrimages**:

 Many Hindus undertake pilgrimages during Shravana to visit sacred places associated with Lord Shiva, such as the Amarnath Cave in Jammu and Kashmir and the 12 Jyotirlingas (holy shrines) dedicated to Lord Shiva.


7. **Spiritual Reflection**: 

Shravana is a time for spiritual reflection, meditation, and deepening one's connection with the divine. Devotees often engage in reciting prayers, mantras, and reading religious texts.


8. **Monsoon Season**: 

Shravana coincides with the monsoon season in India. The arrival of rains brings relief from the heat and rejuvenates the environment, making it an ideal time for spiritual practices and rituals.


Shravana is a month that fosters devotion and spiritual growth, with a strong focus on the worship of Lord Shiva. It's also a time for celebrating the bond between siblings, respecting nature (represented by snake worship), and reflecting on one's spiritual journey. This month encapsulates a rich blend of religious and cultural practices in India.

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