In Hinduism, the month of Sawan is considered the most sacred time for devotion to and worship of Lord Shiva. Throughout this month, devotees flock to Shiva temples in large numbers, and rituals such as *Jalabhishek* (offering water), *Rudrabhishek*, and general worship of Bholenath hold special significance. Religious belief holds that worshipping Shiva with faith and adherence to proper rituals alleviates life's hardships and leads to happiness, prosperity, and the fulfillment of wishes. Meanwhile, unmarried women observe the 'Sawan Monday' fast with the hope of finding a suitable life partner. Let us find out from Ujjain-based astrologer Anand Bhardwaj when Sawan begins this year and how many Mondays it will encompass.

According to the Vedic almanac, the month of Shravan begins the day after *Ashadh Purnima* (Guru Purnima). This year—2026—the month of Sawan commences on July 30 (Thursday) and concludes on August 28 (Friday), the day of Raksha Bandhan.

How many Mondays in Sawan?
There are a total of four 'Sawan Monday' fasts this year. The first Monday falls on August 3; this day also marks the beginning of the *Madhushravani* puja for newlywed women. The second Monday falls on August 10, followed by the third on August 17. The fourth and final Monday of Sawan will be on August 24. Observing these four Mondays holds special significance for pleasing Lord Shiva.

Religious significance of Sawan Mondays
According to the *Shiva Purana*, the Sawan Monday fast is highly significant. Observing it brings good fortune and ensures the continued grace of Lord Shiva. People also observe this fast to seek happiness, prosperity, and a fulfilling life. Worshipping Lord Shiva during Sawan yields favorable planetary effects and helps eliminate all *doshas* (astrological afflictions). Those unable to worship daily should certainly perform puja and observe the fast on Sawan Mondays.

How to worship Mahadev during Sawan?
The month of Sawan is considered the most sacred time for the worship of Lord Shiva. It is believed that worship performed during this time yields manifold benefits. Rise during the *Brahma Muhurta* (the auspicious pre-dawn period), bathe, and wear clean clothes. Thereafter, make a solemn resolve (*sankalp*) to worship Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, either at a Shiva temple or at your home shrine. First, worship Lord Ganesha and Lord Kartikeya, followed by Goddess Parvati and the Serpent Deity (*Nag Devta*); finally, while offering a steady, thin stream of water onto the *Shivling*, chant ‘Om Namah Shivaya’ or the *Mahamrityunjaya Mantra*.

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