Every Sawan Somwar: The second Monday of Sawan falls on August 10th. There are four 'Sawan Somwar' (Mondays of Sawan) fasts during this year's Shravan month. The day of Sawan Somwar holds great significance for devotees of Lord Shiva. On this day, people observe a fast and perform rituals such as the worship of Mahadev, recitation of scriptures, chanting of mantras, and acts of charity. The *Shivling* is anointed with water (*Jalabhishek*), and *Rudrabhishek* is performed to fulfill specific wishes.

Why is Sawan Somwar significant?
The month of Sawan is dear to Lord Shiva, and 'Somwar' (Monday) refers to the day of the Moon (*Soma*). When the Moon God was afflicted by a wasting disease, he performed severe penance to please Mahadev. Through Shiva's grace, his suffering was alleviated, and Mahadev adorned him upon His head, earning Him the name 'Chandrashekhar'. For this reason, Shiva is worshipped on Mondays. There is also a legend that Goddess Parvati observed the 16 Sawan Somwar fasts to attain Lord Shiva as her consort.

Does every Sawan Somwar have a distinct significance?
There are at least four Mondays in the month of Sawan. Shiva is worshipped on all these Mondays while observing a fast. Generally, the ritual procedure for the fast remains the same. Each Sawan Somwar fast holds equal importance; the objective is to seek Shiva's grace and the fulfillment of one's wishes.

However, people often attach greater importance to a specific Monday based on the *Tithi* (lunar day) and *Yoga* (astrological combination) occurring on that day. For instance, seven auspicious combinations are forming on this year's second Sawan Somwar, which also coincides with the *Som Pradosh Vrat*. Yet, this does not imply that a Sawan Somwar lacking such specific combinations is any less significant. The Sawan Somwar fast, in itself, is capable of fulfilling all your wishes.

What kind of worship should be performed on Sawan Somwar?

On Sawan Somwar, in addition to the standard worship associated with the fast, you may choose to have *Rudrabhishek* performed. Performing *Rudrabhishek* leads to an increase in happiness, prosperity, wealth, longevity, and good health. It is also performed to seek relief from incurable diseases and to overcome the fear of untimely death. You can also perform a puja on the Mondays of the month of Sawan to seek relief from Kaal Sarp Dosh.

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