The holy month of Sawan (Shravan) is one of the most sacred periods in the Hindu calendar and is dedicated to the worship of Lord Shiva. Devotees across India observe fasts, perform special prayers and visit Shiva temples throughout the month, believing that sincere worship during Sawan brings peace, prosperity and the fulfilment of wishes.
The month is also marked by the Kanwar Yatra, during which Shiva devotees collect holy Ganga water, especially from Haridwar, and carry it to nearby Shiva temples to perform Jalabhishek on the Shivling during Sawan Shivratri.
When does Sawan 2026 begin and end?
According to the Hindu calendar, Sawan 2026 will begin on Thursday, July 30, and end on Friday, August 28, coinciding with Shravan Purnima. The festival of Raksha Bandhan will also be celebrated on August 28.
Sawan Somwar 2026: Full list of Monday fasts
Mondays, known as Sawan Somwar, are considered especially auspicious during the holy month. Many devotees observe a fast and offer prayers to Lord Shiva, believing that doing so brings happiness, prosperity and marital bliss.
There will be four Sawan Somwars in 2026:
- First Sawan Somwar: August 3
- Second Sawan Somwar: August 10
- Third Sawan Somwar: August 17
- Fourth Sawan Somwar: August 24
On these days, Shiva temples witness large crowds of devotees offering water, milk, bel (bael) leaves, dhatura and other sacred items to the Shivling.
Mangala Gauri Vrat 2026: Complete list of Tuesday fasts
Apart from Mondays, Tuesdays during Sawan are also considered highly significant. These days are dedicated to Goddess Mangala Gauri, a form of Goddess Parvati.
Married women and unmarried girls observe the Mangala Gauri Vrat to seek blessings for a happy married life, family well-being and prosperity.
The Mangala Gauri Vrat dates in 2026 are:
- First Mangala Gauri Vrat: August 4
- Second Mangala Gauri Vrat: August 11
- Third Mangala Gauri Vrat: August 18
- Fourth Mangala Gauri Vrat: August 25
Why is offering water to the Shivling important during Sawan?
Offering water, known as Jalabhishek, is one of the most important rituals performed during Sawan. Devotees believe that offering holy water, milk and other sacred items to the Shivling pleases Lord Shiva and helps remove obstacles from life.
Many devotees also perform Rudrabhishek, chant the Mahamrityunjaya Mantra and recite the Shiv Chalisa throughout the month. Temples across the country organise special prayers and religious ceremonies during this period.
According to Hindu beliefs, worshipping Lord Shiva with devotion, discipline and faith during Sawan brings peace, prosperity, good health and happiness to the family.
Disclaimer: This article is intended for informational purposes only and is based on Hindu religious beliefs and customs. Practices and interpretations may differ across regions and communities.
