Shravan, also known as Sawan, is a significant month in the Hindu calendar and holds great religious and cultural importance in different states of India. 

Here are some of the significant observances associated with Shravan in different states:

Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand

The month of Shravan is dedicated to Lord Shiva in these states. Devotees observe fasts and visit Shiva temples, especially the famous Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi and the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple in Rishikesh. This month, the Kanwar Yatra, where devotees carry holy water from the Ganges River to offer it at Shiva temples, is a popular tradition.

Maharashtra and Goa 

The festival of Shravani or Shravani Purnima is celebrated this month in Maharashtra and Goa. Women and girls wear green bangles and traditional attire and offer prayers to Goddess Parvati for the well-being and longevity of their husbands. This festival is particularly important for married women.

Gujarat and Rajasthan

In these states, the month of Shravan is celebrated as Shravan Mahina. Devotees observe fasts on Mondays, known as “Shravan Somvar”, and visit Lord Shiva’s temples. Special prayers and rituals are performed, and offerings like milk, fruits, and flowers are made to Lord Shiva.

Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh

Shravan holds immense significance in these states, particularly for the tribal communities. People celebrate the Teej festival this month, which involves fasting and performing traditional dances and songs. It is considered an auspicious time for married women to pray for the well-being of their husbands.

Bihar and Jharkhand

In these states, the month of Shravan is marked by celebrating the famous Shravani Mela at the Deoghar Baidyanath Temple. Millions of devotees pilgrimage to the temple carrying holy water from the Ganges River. This month-long festival attracts devotees from various parts of the country.

West Bengal and Odisha

In these states, the month of sawan is associated with the worship of Goddess Lakshmi. Devotees perform special pujas and offer prayers to seek prosperity and blessings. In West Bengal, the festival of Raksha Bandhan, celebrating the bond between siblings, aka sisters and brothers, is also observed during this month.

It’s important to note that while these are some common observances during sawan , practices and traditions may vary within each state and among different communities. 

The significance of sawan varies across India, but it generally revolves around devotion, fasting, and seeking blessings from deities, particularly Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.

Exploring the Unique Significance of Shravan in Banaras

Shravan holds special relevance to Banaras, also known as Varanasi or Kashi, due to its association with Lord Shiva. Banaras is considered one of the holiest cities in Hinduism, and Lord Shiva is believed to reside in the city. 

Here’s why Shravan is particularly significant in Banaras:

Lord Shiva’s Abode

Banaras is believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva, and it is considered one of the twelve Jyotirlingas (divine representations of Lord Shiva) in India. During the month of sawan, devotees from all over the country flock to Banaras to offer their prayers and attempt to seek blessings from Lord Shiva.

Kanwar Yatra

The Kanwar Yatra, a major pilgrimage during Shravan, holds immense importance in Banaras. Devotees, known as Kanwariyas, carry holy water from the Ganges River in pitchers called kanwars and embark on a journey to offer it at the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. The streets of Banaras are filled with devotees chanting hymns and singing praises of Lord Shiva during this time.

Fasting and Rituals

Shravan is a month of fasting and austerity, with Mondays being particularly significant. Devotees observe fasts on Mondays, known as “Shravan Somvar,” and offer prayers to Lord Shiva in various temples across Banaras. They also perform rituals like Rudrabhishekam, where sacred chants and offerings are made to Lord Shiva.

Ganga Aarti

The Ganga Aarti, a grand ritual of worshipping the Ganges River, holds special significance in Banaras, especially during Shravan. As dusk sets in, devotees gather at the Dashashwamedh Ghat to witness the enchanting Ganga Aarti ceremony every evening.

Priests perform intricate rituals, light lamps, and chant hymns, creating a mesmerizing ambience. During Shravan, the Ganga Aarti becomes even more vibrant and attracts a large number of devotees.

Religious Discourses and Festivities

During Shravan, Banaras becomes a hub of religious discourses, spiritual lectures, and cultural festivities. Temples and ashrams organize special events, satsangs (spiritual gatherings), and lectures by revered saints and scholars. The city is adorned with lights and decorations, creating a joyous and spiritually charged atmosphere.

Shravan is when Banaras comes alive with devotion, rituals, and a deep sense of spirituality. The city witnesses a significant influx of devotees who seek blessings, engage in religious practices, and immerse themselves in the divine aura of Lord Shiva during this auspicious month.

Colours to be Considered Auspicious in Shravan

In Hindu culture, different colours hold symbolic and auspicious significance for various occasions and festivals. While no specific set of colours is considered universally auspicious in Shravan, certain colours are generally associated with the month and its festivities. 

Here are a few colours that are commonly regarded as auspicious during Shravan:

Green

Green is often associated with fertility, growth, and prosperity. It is considered an auspicious colour during Shravan, especially for women. Many women wear green-coloured clothing, such as sarees or bangles, during this month, particularly on special occasions like the Shravani Purnima festival.

White

White symbolizes purity, peace, and spirituality. It is often worn during religious ceremonies and auspicious occasions. Many devotees wear white clothes while visiting temples, performing rituals, or observing fasts during Shravan.

Red

Red is vibrant, symbolizing power, vitality, and passion. It is considered auspicious in many Hindu rituals and ceremonies. Devotees may choose to wear red-coloured clothing or accessories while offering prayers, performing rituals, or participating in festive celebrations during Shravan.

Yellow

Yellow represents brightness, energy, and positivity. It is associated with knowledge and learning as well. Some people wear yellow attire or adornments during Shravan as a symbol of auspiciousness and devotion.

Orange

Orange is a colour associated with spirituality, fire, and enthusiasm. It is often considered auspicious in Hindu rituals and signifies religious fervour. Devotees may opt for orange-coloured clothing or accessories during Shravan as a way to express their devotion and enthusiasm for Lord Shiva.

It’s important to note that individual preferences and regional customs may vary when it comes to choosing auspicious colours during Shravan. While these colours are commonly associated with the month, people are free to wear the colours they find personally meaningful or relevant to their traditions and beliefs.

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Author – Riah Dave