Sawan, also known as Shravan, is a highly auspicious month in the Hindu calendar, dedicated to worshipping Lord Shiva. 
Devotees believe that pleasing Lord Shiva during this period brings immense blessings, prosperity, and the fulfillment of desires. Here are some incredible tips to ensure that your devotion is noticed and your prayers are answered.
Fasting is a powerful way to show your devotion and dedication to Lord Shiva. Observing fasts on Mondays, known as ‘Shravan Somwar Vrats,’ is particularly significant. Devotees can opt for a complete fast or consume fruits and milk throughout the day. This act of penance is believed to cleanse the soul and bring you closer to the divine. One of the most revered offerings to Lord Shiva is the Bilva leaf, also known as Bel Patra. Each Bilva leaf has three leaflets, representing Lord Shiva’s trident. Offering Bilva leaves during Sawan is considered extremely auspicious. Ensure the leaves are clean and not damaged, and present them with utmost devotion. Chanting Shiva mantras is a powerful way to invoke his blessings. The “Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra” and the “Om Namah Shivaya” mantra are particularly potent. Regular chanting of these mantras purifies the mind and creates a spiritual atmosphere. You can use a rudraksha mala to keep count and enhance the potency of your chants.
Performing Abhishekam is a ritual where the Shiva Lingam is bathed with various sacred substances such as milk, honey, ghee, curd, and sugar. Each substance has its significance and benefits. For instance, milk is believed to bestow purity, while honey symbolizes sweetness in life. Performing Abhishekam with devotion can appease Lord Shiva and bring peace and prosperity. Offering fresh fruits and flowers to Lord Shiva is a simple yet effective way to seek his blessings. Some flowers that are especially dear to Shiva include Datura, Hibiscus, and Lotus. Similarly, fruits like coconut and bananas are considered auspicious. Ensure that the offerings are fresh and presented with a pure heart. Visiting Shiva temples during Sawan is highly recommended. Participating in the temple rituals, listening to Shiva hymns, and performing aarti (ritual of worship) in the temple premises create a powerful spiritual connection. If possible, visit prominent Shiva temples or pilgrimage sites like Kashi Vishwanath, Kedarnath, or Amarnath.
Rudraksha beads, believed to have originated from the tears of Lord Shiva, hold immense spiritual significance. Wearing a Rudraksha mala or bracelet during Sawan is said to protect the wearer from negative energies and bring peace and harmony. Ensure that the Rudraksha beads are genuine and energized through proper rituals. Reading and listening to Shiva Puranas or other sacred texts related to Lord Shiva is a profound way to understand his greatness and seek his blessings. These texts contain numerous stories and teachings that inspire devotion and righteousness. Make it a habit to read a chapter daily or listen to the scriptures during Sawan. Lighting an oil lamp (diya) in front of the Shiva Lingam or idol is an essential part of worship. It symbolizes the dispelling of darkness and the arrival of divine light in one’s life. Use pure ghee or sesame oil for the diya, and light it every evening while chanting Shiva mantras.
Lord Shiva is known as the benevolent and compassionate deity. Practicing non-violence, kindness, and charity during Sawan aligns with his divine qualities. Engage in acts of kindness, help the needy, and refrain from any form of harm or negative behavior. This not only pleases Lord Shiva but also purifies your karma.
