In Sanatan Dharma, the month of Shravan (Sawan) is considered the holiest time for worshipping Lord Shiva. It is believed that worshipping Bholenath with devotion and proper rituals, observing fasts, performing spiritual practices (Jap-Tap), and engaging in acts of charity throughout this month yields immense spiritual merit. This year, the month of Sawan begins on July 30 and concludes on August 28, coinciding with the full moon day (Purnima). According to religious beliefs, auspicious deeds performed during this period bring manifold rewards.

Pandit Kalki Ram, an astrologer from Ayodhya, explains to Local 18 that the month of Sawan is not limited to worship alone; acts of service, compassion, and charity also hold special significance. Lord Shiva is an incredibly benevolent and compassionate deity. Helping the needy with a sincere heart and donating according to one's means invokes Shiva's grace and paves the way for happiness, peace, and prosperity in life.

**Why Donating Food is Considered Supreme**

According to Pandit Kalki Ram, donating food (Ann-daan) during Sawan is regarded as the supreme form of charity. Feeding the needy or donating food grains such as wheat, rice, and lentils is considered highly meritorious. It is believed that feeding a hungry person pleases Lord Shiva and ensures that the family never faces a shortage of food. Donating new clothes, bedsheets, or useful household items to the needy during Sawan is also considered auspicious. Religious traditions dictate that one should donate clean and useful items; donating old or unusable goods is best avoided.

**According to One's Means**

The astrologer notes that providing financial assistance to the needy according to one's capacity earns special spiritual merit. Monetary donation is seen not merely as financial aid but as a symbol of service and altruism. It is believed to attract the blessings of Lord Shiva. The tradition of offering water and milk to the Shivling during Sawan has existed for centuries. Donating milk and curd to the needy is also considered auspicious. This pleases Lord Shiva and ensures the continued happiness and prosperity of the family.

**Points to keep in mind while making a donation**
Pandit Kalki Ram states that charity should always be performed with devotion, humility, and a spirit of selflessness. The objective of the donation should not merely be to fulfill a religious tradition, but to help those in need. Even a small donation, made according to one's means, can become a medium to receive Lord Shiva's grace. Charity performed with devotion and a spirit of service during the month of Sawan infuses a person's life with positive energy. However, any religious belief should be embraced with faith.

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