Weekly Monday fasts and abhishekam dedicated to Lord Shiva—cooling lunar devotion in the heat of monsoon.
Sacred month
Shravana (Savan)
July – August
In depth
Shravana is the monsoon heart of devotion. Rivers swell, forests green, and Shaiva sadhana intensifies. Householders often adopt sattvik meals, Monday abhisheka of the Shiva Lingam, and Tuesday Mangala Gauri vows. The Kanwar Yatra carries Ganga jal to distant shrines—turning pilgrimage into moving prayer.
The holiest month for Shaivism. Devotees observe strict vegetarianism and fasting, especially on Savan Somvars (Mondays) and Mangala Gauri Vrats (Tuesdays). Kanwar Yatra pilgrimages take place.
Associated deities
Key days & festivals
Worship of Nagas seeking protection, ecological gratitude, and harmony with subterranean life-force.
Celebration of protective bonds and Upakarma (sacred thread renewal) under the full moon.
Suggested practices
- Somvar vrat with milk/water abhishekam and Om Namah Shivaya japa
- Offer bel patra, white flowers, and bilva leaves
- Support Kanwar pilgrims with water and rest if possible
- Keep evenings quiet—chant Rudram or Shiva stotras