Shravan fasting rules: Do's and don'ts
Today marks the much-awaited first Shravan Somwar (Monday). On this day, devotees observe fast and worship Lord Shiva with great devotion and dedication. It is important to know the do's and don'ts during the month of Shravan, especially for those who are observing the fast. Take a look and follow them for a meaningful and fulfilling Shravan experience.
Do's - Basic rituals
If you are dedicated to observing the fast on every Shravan Somwar, do so sincerely and honestly throughout the entire month. Start your day by waking up early in the morning and cleaning your puja room. Visit the temple and perform Abhishekam for Lord Shiva. This means pouring water, milk, sugar, ghee, curd, and honey (called Panchamrit) over the deity.
Do's - Nutrition
To ensure your body receives the necessary nutrients, have nuts and fruits as snacks. Throughout the day, while observing the fast, keep yourself hydrated by drinking fruit juice, water, and refreshing buttermilk. When preparing Sattvik meals for others, it is advisable to substitute regular table salt with rock salt. This small change in your cooking habits can enhance the purity of your meals.
Don'ts - Abstain from consuming these foods
It is imperative to adhere to certain restrictions and abstain from specific foods. Firstly, it is strictly forbidden to consume alcohol throughout Shravan. Some food items should be avoided at all costs, including mustard, sesame, masoor dal, and brinjal, as well as meat, fish, and eggs. Packaged juices can contain taste enhancers and added preservatives, hence avoid them too, for a purely Sattvik Shravan.
Significance of fasting
Popular belief is that women who fast on Shravan Mondays are blessed with a suitable life partner. It is said that Goddess Parvati observed a complete fast during this sacred month and was blessed to have Lord Shiva as her husband. Married couples often observe this fast together for a harmonious married life. Some also believed that fasting could bring prosperity, health, and joy.
What does the legend say?
During Samudra Manthan, many treasures, including the divine elephant Airavat, emerged from the ocean of milk. However, the deadliest poison called Halahal also surfaced. To save the universe from its destruction, Lord Shiva selflessly drank the poison. Hindu devotees observe Shravan Somvar every week during the month by fasting in gratitude and reverence for Lord Shiva's sacrifice and seeking His blessings.
