Sawan's First Monday 2026: Today, the first Monday of the holy month of Sawan is being observed across the country. Long queues of devotees have been seen since early morning at major Shiva temples nationwide. Temple premises are resonating with chants of "Har-Har Mahadev" and "Bam-Bam Bhole." The first Monday of Sawan is considered extremely auspicious for worshipping Lord Shiva. It is believed that worshipping Bholenath with a sincere heart and performing *Jalabhishek* (ritual offering of water) on this day resolves life's troubles and fulfills wishes. However, according to religious beliefs, there are certain mistakes one must avoid during the worship.

**Do not offer these items to the Shivling**
First and foremost, one should never offer turmeric (*haldi*), vermilion (*sindoor*), or *kumkum* to Lord Shiva. These items are primarily used in the worship of Goddesses, whereas offering water, milk, curd, honey, *Gangajal* (holy water from the Ganges), and *Belpatra* (Bilva leaves) to the Shivling is considered auspicious.

**Pay attention to the *Belpatra***
Care must be taken when offering *Belpatra*. The leaf should be clean, unbroken, and consist of three leaflets. Insect-eaten, dried, or torn *Belpatra* should not be offered to Lord Shiva. Additionally, tradition dictates that the leaf should be offered with its smooth surface facing the Shivling.

**Do not offer these flowers**
Tulsi (holy basil) leaves should not be offered to the Shivling during worship. According to religious beliefs, the use of Tulsi is prohibited in the worship of Lord Shiva. Similarly, the Ketaki (Kewda) flower is also not offered to Him.

**Do not rush the *Jalabhishek***
One should not rush while performing *Jalabhishek*. It is considered auspicious to pour water slowly with devotion and a calm mind while chanting the mantra "Om Namah Shivaya." Worship should not be merely for show but performed with complete faith and devotion.

**What to do after *Abhishek* with milk**
If you are performing *Abhishek* with milk, ensure that you offer clean water afterwards. This is believed to purify the Shivling. The water or milk used for the *Abhishek* (ritual bathing of the deity) should not be allowed to spill haphazardly, and the place of worship should always be kept clean.

**Things to Avoid During Sawan**
Observing *Sattvic* (pure and virtuous) conduct holds special significance during the fasts observed on Mondays in the month of Sawan. Therefore, one should refrain from anger, lying, using abusive language, or insulting others on this day. It is believed that Lord Shiva is pleased not only by worship but also by good behavior and self-restraint. If the temple is crowded, avoid jostling or disturbing others while they pray; wait for your turn to offer prayers peacefully and adhere to the rules. If, for any reason, it is not possible to visit the temple for *Jal-Abhishek*, one can instead meditate on Lord Shiva, chant mantras, and recite the *Shiv Chalisa* at home.

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