The month of Sawan is here and if you are fond of celebrating it then you must know that it is to honor Lord Shiva. Devotees observe fast every Monday in Sawan and the biggest festival Sawan Shivratri is just around the corner. This year it is on August 2. According to the Hindu calendar, Sawan Shivratri falls on the Chaturdashi of Krishna Paksha. It is a big deal and it is believed that fasting and offering water to the Shivling will fulfill all your wishes.
When is the big day and what is the auspicious time?
Mark your calendars! The Chaturdashi tithi of Krishna Paksha will begin on August 2 at 3:26 pm and end on August 3 at 3:50 pm. So, Sawan Shivaratri is a one-day celebration on August 2. Expect temples to be crowded as everyone joins in the celebrations. Some devotees fast completely, while others eat fruits. If you are fasting, here’s what you should know.
What to do and what not to do on Sawan Shivratri:
-
First things first – if you are fasting then clean your house.
-
Wear clean clothes after bathing in the morning. Bathing in the Ganges is very important.
-
Offer water to the Shiv Linga and add Bhaang, Dhatura, Sandalwood, Bel Patra and cow milk in it.
-
Recite Shiv Chalisa and Aarti.
-
For fasting eat dry fruits, fruits, milk, water chestnut flour or buckwheat flour.
-
Use rock salt in place of regular salt.
-
You can drink juice, milk or lassi.
-
Avoid onion, garlic, cereals, pulses, meat, eggs and alcohol.
What to offer to Lord Shiva on Sawan Shivratri:
Make sure to include sweet dishes in the prasad! This year make halwa, kheer or barfi.
Kesari Semolina Halwa
This Kesari Halwa is a wonderful recipe made with semolina, ghee, sugar and saffron. Click here for the recipe.
Rice pudding
No Indian celebration is complete without rice kheer! It’s a classic dish, but don’t forget the fast-friendly sabudana kheer.
Try these recipes for Sawan Shivratri and let us know in the comments which one you liked the most!
