By Vinod Popat– Radio Utsav | Promoting Gujarati Culture and Values in the UK
Shravan Maas (શ્રાવણ માસ), also known as the month of Shravan, is one of the holiest months in the Hindu calendar. It is especially important to Hindus in India and across the world. But what exactly is Shravan Maas, and why do we celebrate it? Let’s explore this sacred month in a simple way, so that children and youth can understand its meaning and importance.
🌙 What is Shravan Maas?
Shravan Maas is the fifth month in the Hindu lunar calendar. It usually falls around July to August in the Gregorian calendar. The month gets its name from the star Shravan (Sravana Nakshatra), which is prominent during this time.
This month is considered very special for worshipping Lord Shiva, the powerful and kind god known as the destroyer of evil and the protector of goodness. Many festivals, fasts, and rituals take place during Shravan Maas, making it a time of spiritual growth and devotion.
🙏 Why is Shravan Maas Celebrated?
There are many reasons why Shravan Maas is so important in Hinduism:
1. Samudra Manthan (The Churning of the Ocean):
According to Hindu mythology, the gods and demons churned the ocean to get nectar. During this process, a deadly poison called Halahal came out. Lord Shiva drank the poison to save the universe, and this happened during Shravan Maas. As a result, people worship him deeply during this month.
2. Lord Shiva’s Blessings:
It is believed that prayers, fasts, and devotion offered in this month are 100 times more powerful. Devotees pray to Lord Shiva to seek his blessings for good health, peace, and protection from negativity.
3. Season of Reflection:
Shravan comes during the rainy season in India. Traditionally, people stay indoors more, focus on prayers, avoid negative habits, and grow spiritually.
🌼 How is Shravan Maas Celebrated?
Different Hindu communities celebrate Shravan Maas in various ways, but here are some common practices:
🛕 1. Shiv Puja (Worship of Lord Shiva):
• People visit Shiva temples, offer Bilva leaves, water, milk, honey, and flowers to the Shivling (symbol of Lord Shiva).
• Om Namah Shivaya, a powerful mantra, is chanted regularly.
📿 2. Fasting (Vrat):
• Many devotees keep a fast every Monday, called Shravan Somvar Vrat.
• Some avoid meat, onion, garlic, and heavy food for the whole month.
• Fasting is a way to cleanse the body and mind and stay focused on spiritual goals.
📅 3. Special Mondays and Festivals:
• Mondays (Somvar) are extra holy this month.
• Other important festivals during Shravan include:
• Nag Panchami – Worship of snakes, believed to be connected to Lord Shiva.
• Raksha Bandhan – Celebration of the bond between brothers and sisters.
• Janmashtami (sometimes falls in Shravan) – Birth of Lord Krishna.
👨👩👧👦 4. Family Activities and Devotion:
• Families do evening prayers together.
• Children may participate in art and craft related to Lord Shiva, learn bhajans (devotional songs), or act in religious dramas at temples.
💡 What Can Children and Youth Learn From Shravan Maas?
• Discipline: Fasting and devotion teach us control and commitment.
• Kindness: Lord Shiva teaches us to be humble, generous, and protect others.
• Cultural Identity: Celebrating Hindu festivals keeps us connected to our roots, even while living in the UK.
• Spiritual Growth: Shravan Maas is a time to become better people — thoughtful, caring, and positive.
🕉 Final Thoughts
Shravan Maas is not just about rituals — it’s about becoming more mindful and respectful. Whether you are a child, teenager, or adult, this month is a chance to reconnect with your culture, your family, and your inner self.
Next time you see your parents doing a special puja or fasting on a Monday, ask them about it — and maybe even join in. It’s a beautiful way to build your understanding of Hindu dharma and values.
Radio Utsav | Promoting Gujarati Culture and Values in the UK
