Sawan 2023: Sawan, Sravana, or Shravan is a Hindu sacred month celebrated annually with great zeal and splendour. The Shrawan Maas is a holy occasion for all Shiva devotees and is dedicated to Lord Shiva.
During the month of Sawan, Hindus in India and other parts of the world observe a special fasting ritual on every Monday (Sawan Somvaars) and worship Lord Shiva with unwavering faith and devotion.
There is no specific date for Sawan, but it typically occurs in July or August with the beginning of monsoon season. Some individuals believe that the monsoon showers are Lord Shiva’s blessings and represent the renewal of life.
When Are Shravan and Sawan in 2023? What Makes This Year’s Sawan Month Unique?
This year, the Sawan month will begin on July 4 and conclude on August 31. This year is exceptional due to the uncommon occurrence of a 59-day long Sawan month, during which Hindus will have the opportunity to observe eight Sawan Somwars as opposed to the usual four.
The 59-day long Sawan month will occur after 19 years, and Adhik Maas or Mal Maas has lengthened the Shravan this year.
Dates for Sawan or Shravan Somwar in 2023
According to Drik Panchang, the following dates will mark the Shravan Somwars.
- Monday, July 10, 2023: Initial Shravan Somwar Vrat
- Monday, July 17, 2023 is the Second Shravan Somwar Vrat
- Monday, July 24, 2023 is the Third Shravan Somwar Vrat
- Monday, July 31, 2023 is the Fourth Shravan Somwar Vrat
- Monday, August 7, 2023 will mark the Fifth Shravan Somwar Vrat
- Monday, August 14, 2023 will mark the sixth Shravan Somwar Vrat
- Monday, August 21, 2023 will mark the seventh Shravan Somwar Vrat
- Monday, August 28th, 2023 is the eighth Shravan Somwar Vrat
What Does the Sawan or Shravan Mass Signify?
The month of Sawan or Shravan is dedicated to worshipping Lord Shiva. People observe Sawan Somwar fasts to seek Lord Shiva and Maa Parvati’s benediction.
In addition, Kanwar Yatra is an important Shravan Mass ritual. In this ritual, people collect holy river water in tiny pots known as Kanwars. People donning saffron-colored garments carry water on foot to all of Lord Shiva’s holy sites.
