The month of Sawan is considered the holiest time for devotion to Lord Bholenath. This year, the second Monday of Sawan falls on August 10, 2026, marking a rare celestial alignment that devotees of Shiva have long awaited. According to the *Panchang* (Hindu almanac), the day coincides with *Trayodashi Tithi* (the thirteenth day of the lunar fortnight) alongside Monday, creating the auspicious occasion of *Som Pradosh Vrat*. Religious beliefs hold that the convergence of a Sawan Monday and *Som Pradosh* is immensely meritorious. Pramod Shringari, a *Tirth-Purohit* (pilgrimage priest) and astrologer at the Baidyanath Jyotirlinga, notes that such an auspicious alignment has occurred after many years; the last time this happened was in 2020. It is believed that the wishes of devotees who worship Lord Shiva with proper rituals on this day are quickly fulfilled.

**Worshipping Lord Shiva during *Pradosh Tithi* is highly auspicious:**
Astrologer Pramod Shringari explains that the *Skanda Purana* highlights the special significance of the *Pradosh Vrat*. It is believed that during the *Pradosh* period of the *Trayodashi Tithi*, Lord Shiva performs the *Anand Tandav* (Dance of Bliss) amidst all the gods and goddesses on Mount Kailash. Consequently, the spiritual rewards of worshipping Shiva, chanting mantras, and performing *Jalabhishek* (ritual water offering) or *Rudrabhishek* during this time are manifold compared to ordinary days. Lord Shiva is quickly pleased with His devotees, fulfilling their wishes and removing various obstacles from their lives.

**Know the auspicious timings for worship:**
Regarding the auspicious timings for the day, the period from 5:47 AM to 7:27 AM is considered highly auspicious for the Sawan Monday worship. Subsequently, the time between 9:07 AM and 10:47 AM also offers an excellent window for Shiva worship. Meanwhile, the evening *Pradosh* period is considered the most significant time for the *Som Pradosh Vrat* rituals. Performing special worship of Lord Bholenath between 7:05 PM and 9:14 PM on this day will yield immense spiritual benefits. Worship and prayers should be performed with the *Panchopchar* (five-step ritual) on this day:
According to astrologers, every Monday during the month of *Sawan* (Shravan) holds special significance; however, the importance is further amplified when a Monday coincides with the *Trayodashi Tithi* (13th day of the lunar fortnight), creating the auspicious *Som Pradosh Vrat* (fast). On this day, it is considered highly auspicious to offer *Gangajal* (holy water from the Ganges), milk, curd, honey, *Belpatra* (wood apple leaves), *Dhatura*, *Bhang*, white sandalwood paste, and *Aak* flowers to the *Shivling*, while chanting the *Om Namah Shivaya* and *Mahamrityunjaya* mantras. Devotees who observe the fast with sincere devotion and worship Lord Shiva receive His special grace.

Elimination of all negative forces:
According to religious beliefs, *Rudrabhishek* and *Jalabhishek* (ritual bathing of the *Shivling*) performed during this auspicious alignment yield far greater benefits than on ordinary days. For those facing persistent obstacles in marriage or struggling to find a suitable life partner, their wishes may soon be fulfilled through the grace of Lord Shiva. It is also believed that this observance helps resolve marital stress, differences between husband and wife, and troubles in romantic relationships. Furthermore, this day is considered extremely auspicious for couples desiring children, as well as for those praying for the good health and longevity of family members. It is believed that worshipping Lord Shiva with a sincere heart on this day brings relief from financial hardships, debt, mental stress, and negative life circumstances. If a home has long been plagued by disputes or unrest, worshipping Lord Shiva and chanting mantras during the *Pradosh Kaal* (the twilight period) fosters an atmosphere of peace and happiness within the family and helps resolve mutual conflicts.

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