The month of Sawan, also known as Shravan, is the fifth month in the Hindu lunar calendar. It is considered to be one of the most auspicious months in the Hindu religion, and is dedicated to the worship of Lord Shiva.
In 2023, the month of Sawan will last for two months, from July 4 to August 31. This is due to the occurrence of an extra month in the Hindu calendar, known as Adhik Maas. Adhik Maas is inserted every three years to ensure that the Hindu calendar remains in sync with the solar year.
- The Hindu calendar is a lunisolar calendar, which means that it is based on both the cycles of the moon and the sun. The lunar cycle is 29.5 days long, while the solar cycle is 365.24 days long. This means that the two cycles do not align perfectly, and every few years, there is a need to insert an extra month into the calendar to keep it in sync.
- This extra month is known as the Malmas, Adhik Maas, or Purusthotam Maas. It is usually inserted after the month of Ashadha, and it is a period of introspection and spiritual cleansing.
- In 2023, the month of Sawan will fall in the Malmas. This is a rare occurrence, and it is believed to be a very auspicious time. Devotees of Lord Shiva will have the opportunity to worship him for an extra month, and they believe that this will bring them blessings and prosperity.
Here are some of the reasons why Sawan is considered to be a special month:
- It is the month when the monsoon rains begin in India, and the rain is believed to be a blessing from Lord Shiva.
- It is the month when the Shravan Nakshatra is in the sky, and this nakshatra is associated with Lord Shiva.
- It is the month when the Shivratri festival is celebrated, which is one of the most important festivals in the Hindu calendar.
So, if you are a Hindu devotee of Lord Shiva, then you are in for a special treat this year! The month of Sawan will be a time of great spiritual significance, and it is a time when you can really connect with your faith.
Here are some of the things that you can do to celebrate Sawan:
- Fast on Mondays (Sawan Somwar)
- Visit a Shiva temple
- Perform the Abhishekam (ritual bath) of a Shiva Lingam
- Chant mantras dedicated to Lord Shiva
- Donate to charity
- Meditate on Lord Shiva
I hope this helps!