How to Observe Savan Somvar Fast for Lord Shiva

Introduction

Savan Somvar Vrat (fast) holds great significance in the Hindu tradition, dedicated to Lord Shiva. This fast is observed on every Monday (Somvar) during the holy month of Sawan (Shravan), which usually falls in July-August according to the Hindu lunar calendar. Devotees believe that observing this fast brings blessings, good health, prosperity, and fulfillment of wishes.

Purpose and Significance

• Sawan is considered the most auspicious month for Lord Shiva worship.

• Monday is especially significant as it is Lord Shiva's favored day.

• Observing Savan Somvar Vrat is believed to help devotees receive the boon of a happy marital life, prosperity, and spiritual growth.

Preparations Before The Fast

1. Mental Preparation:
   Devotees should mentally prepare themselves for purity in thought and action. Avoid negative emotions and focus on devotion.

2. Personal Cleanliness:

   • Take a bath early in the morning.

   • Wear clean clothes, preferably white or light blue, which are considered auspicious.

3. Altar/Temple Arrangements:

   • Clean the worship area or home temple.

   • Place an idol or picture of Lord Shiva, along with a Kalash (pot) of water.

Steps to Observe the Savan Somvar Fast

1. Sankalp (Vow)

• After morning ablutions, make a vow to observe the fast with sincerity and devotion.

2. Fasting Methods

There are two common methods:

• Nirjala Vrat: Complete fast without water (for those who are physically able).

• Phalahar Vrat: Consumption of fruits, milk, and water is allowed. Avoid grains, pulses, and regular salt.

Note: Diabetic, elderly, and those with health concerns should adapt the fast as per medical advice.

3. Morning Puja

• Offer prayers to Lord Shiva with these essential items:

  • Water and Milk (for Abhishekam, ritual bathing of the Shiva Lingam)

  • Bel (Bilva) leaves

  • Datura flower and fruit

  • Sandalwood paste

  • Fruits, coconut, and white flowers

  • Incense sticks and earthen lamp (diya)

Shiva Mantras to Chant:

• “Om Namah Shivaya”

• “Mahamrityunjaya Mantra”

4. Visit Shiva Temple (if possible)

• If allowed and safe, visit a nearby Shiva temple.

• Perform Jalabhishek by pouring water or milk on the Shiva Lingam while reciting Shiva prayers.

5. Observe Silence and Meditation

• Read or recite the Shiva Purana, Shiv Chalisa, or stories related to Lord Shiva.

• Spend the day in meditation and maintain calmness.

6. Avoidance During Fast

• Refrain from consuming onion, garlic, non-vegetarian food, and alcohol.

• Avoid negative speech, ill thoughts, or hurting others.

Breaking the Fast (Parana)

• In the evening, repeat the worship of Lord Shiva.

• Offer prasad (usually sweets, fruits or panchamrit) and distribute it among family and friends.

• Break the fast after sunset or after the evening prayers, usually with fruits or light sattvic meal.

Important Tips

• Women observing for marital bliss may also worship Goddess Parvati along with Lord Shiva.

• Maintaining spiritual purity and self-restraint is crucial during this period.

• Try to observe all Mondays of the Sawan month for maximum spiritual merit.

Conclusion

Savan Somvar Vrat is a powerful spiritual discipline rooted in devotion, self-control, and prayer to Lord Shiva. Observing this fast with sincerity helps devotees overcome obstacles, receive divine blessings, and lead a harmonious life.