Sawan 2023: All About This Holy Month and Why This Year's Sawan Is So Special

July 18 2023, by javed techqart, 6 min reading time

Sawan 2023, also known as the Shravana month in the Hindu calendar, holds a cherished place in the hearts of millions of devotees across the world. It is a time of profound spirituality dedicated to Lord Shiva, one of the principal deities in Hinduism. This holy month is revered for its sanctity and admired by followers seeking divine blessings, spiritual growth, and prosperity.

During the Hindu Shravan month 2023, every Monday, known as Shravan Somvar, stands out as an occasion for heightened devotion and fasting. The tradition of fasting on these days is deeply rooted in the ancient scriptures and is believed to bring blessings and fulfillment of one's heartfelt wishes.

Join us on this spiritual journey through the divine month of Sawan 2023 as we unravel its unique charm and explore the customs that make this year's Sawan truly special.

How to open Shravan fast?

To break the Shravan fast, follow these steps:

Perform the Puja: Start by reciting the Shravan Vrat Katha (story) during the puja. This narrative holds significant spiritual importance and symbolizes the devotee's dedication and devotion to Lord Shiva.

Offer Aarti: After reciting the Vrat Katha, offer aarti to Lord Shiva. The aarti is a traditional Hindu ritual where a lamp or camphor flame is waved in front of the deity as a symbol of offering light and reverence.

Distribute Prasad: Conclude the puja by distributing Prasad among your family members. Prasad is considered sacred food offered to the deity during the puja. Sharing it with loved ones symbolizes spreading divine blessings to all.

Evening Fasting: As a devotee, it is essential to maintain the fasting discipline throughout the day. Continue to refrain from consuming any food or drink until the evening.

Evening Aarti: In the evening, perform another aarti to Lord Shiva as a part of the concluding ritual for the fast.

Break the Fast: A devotee can finally break the fast after completing the evening aarti. Start by offering prayers of gratitude to Lord Shiva for his blessings and for the strength to observe the fast.

Light Meal: As per the tradition, a devotee should consume a simple and Saatvik (pure) vegetarian meal to break the fast. It is advisable to have light and easily digestible food to avoid any discomfort.

Remember, the Shravan fast is not merely about abstaining from food; it is a means of connecting with the divine and expressing sincere devotion to Lord Shiva. By following the rituals with faith and dedication, devotees can experience a deeper spiritual connection and seek the blessings of Lord Shiva during this auspicious month.

Can We Eat One-Time Food During the Monday Fast in Sawan 2023?

Fasting in Sawan is a deeply personal and spiritual experience, and some individuals may choose to observe a strict fast without consuming any food throughout the day. However, there is also a provision to have one-time food during the Sawan Monday fast. This means that devotees can partake in a single meal during the day as long as it adheres to the fast rules. The meal should be saatvik, consisting of simple and pure vegetarian food.

Can We Eat Salt in Sawan Fast?

In Sawan 2023, some devotees choose to abstain from consuming salt during their fasts as a form of purification and penance. However, this practice may vary based on individual beliefs and customs. While some may strictly avoid salt, others may choose to include a minimal amount in their meals. The focus during the fast is on spiritual discipline and dedication to Lord Shiva.

Can We Eat Ice Cream in Sawan Fast?

The question of whether ice cream is permissible during the Sawan fast is a subject of debate among devotees. While some may consider it suitable as long as it adheres to vegetarian principles, others may avoid it due to its processed nature. Devotees must respect their beliefs and make choices that align with their spiritual journey during this holy month.

Can We Eat Corn in Sawan Fast?

During Sawan 2023, some devotees may choose to include corn in their fasting diet, while others might refrain from doing so, following traditional customs and practices associated with the fast. The consumption of corn during the Sawan fast is a matter of personal choice and varies based on cultural practices and individual beliefs. Corn is generally considered a nutritious food item, especially during the monsoon season when it is abundantly available.

For those who decide to eat corn during the Sawan fast, it is essential to ensure that the preparation adheres to the rules of fasting, which often involve consuming simple and pure vegetarian food. Corn can be a versatile ingredient and can be prepared in various ways to suit fasting guidelines. On the other hand, certain individuals or communities might choose to abstain from corn during the Sawan fast due to specific beliefs or customs passed down through generations.

Can We Eat Dry Fruits in Sawan Fast?

Including dry fruits in the Sawan fast is a topic that varies based on personal beliefs and customs followed by devotees. In general, dry fruits are considered nutritious and offer a quick energy source, making them popular for those observing fasts.

During Sawan 2023, some devotees may consume dry fruits as part of their Monday fast, especially as a mid-day snack to sustain energy levels. Dry fruits like almonds, raisins, dates, and cashews are commonly enjoyed during fasting due to their health benefits and high nutritional value.

However, it is essential to note that certain individuals or sects might adhere to stricter fasting rules that exclude dry fruits as they can be relatively high in calories and fat. The decision to consume dry fruits during the Sawan fast depends on individual preferences, cultural practices, and the specific guidelines they follow.

When Sawan Ends in 2023?

The month of Sawan in 2023 typically concludes on the last day of the Hindu lunar month of Shravana. The exact date may vary based on the sighting of the new moon, which marks the beginning of the next month in the Hindu calendar. The end of Sawan often coincides with festivals such as Raksha Bandhan and Janmashtami, which devotees eagerly await.

Conclusion

Sawan 2023, the Shravana month, holds immense spiritual significance for Hindus worldwide. During this holy month, devotees observe Monday fasts and perform various rituals to seek blessings from Lord Shiva. While fasting practices may vary, the focus remains on devotion, self-discipline, and spiritual growth. As the month ends, devotees eagerly await the celebration of Raksha Bandhan and Janmashtami, making Sawan 2023 an exceptional and spiritually enriching time for all.