Latest news with #SawanSomvar
Time of India
6 days ago
- Lifestyle
- Time of India
Sawan 2025: A spiritually and astrologically powerful month
1 2 The holy month of Sawan, also known as Shravan, will begin on July 11, 2025. This sacred time is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is considered one of the most spiritually significant months in the Hindu calendar. Beyond religious devotion, Sawan also carries deep astrological importance, making it a powerful period for both spiritual growth and personal transformation. From an astrological point of view, the start of Sawan is believed to bring positive energy for new beginnings. The planetary alignments during this month create a supportive environment for inner reflection, discipline, and making wise life choices. Many people turn to astrology during this time for guidance, as the cosmic energy is considered highly favorable for setting intentions, starting new projects, or deepening spiritual practices. Spiritually, Sawan is a time of devotion and purity. Every Monday during this month, known as Sawan Somvar, devotees fast and offer special prayers to Lord Shiva. These prayers often include pouring water, milk, and offering bilva leaves on the Shiva Lingam, while chanting the powerful mantra "Om Namah Shivaya." by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Dementia Has Been Linked To a Common Habit. Do You Do It? Memory Health Click Here Undo Such rituals are believed to cleanse the mind, reduce negative karma, and invite divine blessings. Visiting Shiva temples, observing fasts, and meditating during Sawan are said to bring peace, clarity, and spiritual upliftment. The energy of this month supports individuals in turning inward, connecting with higher consciousness, and seeking balance in life. Whether through prayer, silence, or spiritual discipline, Sawan offers an opportunity to pause and realign. With the support of both devotional tradition and astrological wisdom, Sawan 2025 stands as a meaningful period to reflect, grow, and move closer to one's inner truth. Discover everything about astrology at the Times of India , including daily horoscopes for Aries , Taurus , Gemini , Cancer , Leo , Virgo , Libra , Scorpio , Sagittarius , Capricorn , Aquarius , and Pisces .
NDTV
7 days ago
- General
- NDTV
Sawan Somvar Vrat Special Aloo Chaat: How To Make This Fasting Favourite At Home
The month of Sawan, also known as Shravan, holds deep spiritual significance in Hinduism. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this time of year sees his devotees offering prayers and observing fasts, especially on Mondays. Starting from 11 July, the Mondays throughout Sawan are considered auspicious by devotees, many of whom fast to seek Lord Shiva's blessings. During these fasts, people typically avoid garlic and onion and stick to a satvik diet, which includes sago (sabudana), milk, curd, buckwheat flour, potatoes and seasonal fruits. Even with a limited list of ingredients, there is no shortage of flavourful fasting dishes. Buckwheat Puri, Sabudana Khichdi, Vrat Wale Paneer Rolls and Samak Rice Pulao are popular options. But if you are in the mood to try something different this Sawan, then this Vrat Special Aloo Chaat should be on your list. Also Read: Sawan 2025: 6 Traditional Recipes That Are Perfect For The Fasting Season Why This Aloo Chaat Is A Must-Try During Fasting Potatoes are fasting favourites for good reason. From Navratri to Sawan Somvar, they work well in multiple vrat-friendly recipes. Think Aloo Rasedaar, Khatta Meetha Vrat Wale Aloo, or crunchy Aloo Pakoras made without regular flour. But this Vrat Special Aloo Chaat has its own spicy twist. What sets it apart? The mix of green chutney, crushed peanuts and lemon juice adds a refreshing punch. If you like, you can even add chopped tomatoes or a dollop of curd on top for extra texture and taste. How To Make Vrat-Friendly Aloo Chaat At Home This potato chaat is not only quick to whip up but also makes for a comforting, crunchy snack to enjoy during Sawan fasts. All you need to do is fry the boiled potatoes until golden brown and mix them with a few spices, chutney and nuts. Top with fresh coriander and pomegranate seeds for that extra colour and bite. Ingredients For Vrat Special Aloo Chaat Boiled potatoes - 4 Roasted peanuts - 1/4 cup Red chilli powder - to taste Black pepper - to taste Cumin powder - 1/2 tsp Rock salt - to taste Green chutney - 1 tbsp Curd - optional Lemon juice - as needed Fresh green coriander - for garnish Pomegranate seeds - for garnish Vrat Special Aloo Chaat Recipe: How To Make Vrat Special Aloo Chaat Step 1: Peel four large boiled potatoes and cut them into cubes. Step 2: Heat oil in a pan and fry the potato cubes until they are golden and crispy. Step 3: Once fried, transfer the potatoes to a mixing bowl. Add red chilli powder, cumin powder, roasted peanuts and black pepper. Mix well. Add rock salt, green chutney and lemon juice. Toss everything together. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and pomegranate seeds. Serve immediately. This vibrant Aloo Chaat can be enjoyed not just during Sawan Somvar, but on any fasting day when you want something quick, spicy and satisfying.
Time of India
14-07-2025
- General
- Time of India
Seeing Angel Numbers 111, 108, or 808 on Sawan Somvar? Here's What Mahadev Is Telling You
Sawan Somvar is not just a day of fasting and offering water to Lord Shiva. It is a sacred time when the doors of divine blessings open wider for those who are willing to walk the path of bhakti and inner reflection. During this auspicious month, the universe becomes more sensitive to our thoughts, emotions, and karmas. Many devotees begin to notice certain signs from the universe—a sudden appearance of repeating numbers (Angel Numbers) like 111, 108, or 808. These are not coincidences. These are sanket, divine indications from Mahadev himself. In our ancient tradition, numbers have always held spiritual importance. Be it the 108 beads of a japmala or the 11 Rudras mentioned in the Puranas, every number carries the energy of a tattva (element) or a deeper truth. When these numbers appear again and again during Sawan, especially on Somvar (Monday), it is Lord Shiva's way of whispering guidance into your life. Let us understand the meaning of these sacred numbers from the viewpoint of Shiva Tatva and how to respond to them with devotion and simplicity. 111: A Call Towards Inner Awakening If you keep seeing 111 on Sawan Somvar—whether on the clock, a bill, or a vehicle number—pause and take it as a direct nivedan from Lord Shiva. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Providers are furious: Internet access without a subscription! Techno Mag Learn More Undo This number carries the energy of beginnings. In Shiv Tatva, 111 represents the one-pointed focus needed to rise above maya (illusion) and step into inner dhyan (concentration). Mahadev is saying, "Now is the time to align your thoughts. Do not let the mind wander in doubt, fear or distraction." In many yogic paths, the first step towards Shiva is the stillness of the mind. 111 is a reminder to slow down your racing thoughts. You are being guided to purify your sankalp (intention). In this Sawan, each thought you offer to Lord Shiva is like a flower. Make it fragrant with truth and simplicity. What You Can Do When You See 111: Chant "Om Namah Shivaya" 11 times with full shraddha (devotion). Sit quietly for 11 minutes and mentally offer your confusion at Shiva's feet. Light a diya before a Shivling or photo of Mahadev and ask him to guide your mind. This number asks you to bring your wandering energy into oneness. Let your breath become your mala, and your mind your temple. 108: The Sacred Cycle of Surrender There is no number more sacred in Sanatan Dharma than 108. Our japmalas have 108 beads, symbolising the journey of the soul through worldly attachments towards moksha. When you see 108 repeatedly during Sawan Somvar, take it as Mahadev's gentle push to begin or deepen your spiritual practice. 108 is not just a number—it is a full circle. It represents the union of Atma (individual soul) with Paramatma (Supreme Soul). Lord Shiva, the Adiyogi, is reminding you that your life is part of a larger rhythm, and by offering your ego into that divine rhythm, you find peace. During Sawan, this number becomes even more powerful. It tells you to bow your head and surrender your doership. Stop trying to control every result. Surrender to Shiva's will. What You Can Do When You See 108: Start doing 108 japas of 'Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra' or 'Om Namah Shivaya' daily. Keep a 108-bead mala near your Shiv murti and use it during your evening puja. Write down your worries and burn them with camphor in front of Mahadev, as a symbolic surrender. 108 asks us to dissolve our ahankar (ego) and walk the path of bhakti with a full heart. During Sawan, even the smallest act of devotion multiplies manifold. 808: Balancing Earthly Life and Spiritual Duty 808 is not often mentioned in ancient texts, but its spiritual resonance cannot be ignored, especially when it appears frequently during holy periods like Sawan. This number carries a message of balance. The number 8 appears twice, and zero sits in the middle. In the eyes of a Shiv Bhakt, 8 represents karmic cycles and strength, while 0 represents shoonya—the void, the state of Shiva himself. Seeing 808 means Mahadev is asking you to balance your worldly responsibilities with your inner spiritual journey. Don't get too lost in the outside world, and don't neglect your worldly duties in the name of sadhana either. Like Nandi, who stands still yet alert, be grounded and inward at once. This number often appears to those who are walking the grihastha path (householder's life) and are struggling to maintain inner peace amidst outer noise. It is a blessing in disguise, a reminder that Mahadev walks with you in your kitchen, office, and mandir alike. What You Can Do When You See 808: Recite 'Shiv Panchakshari Stotra' after your daily bath. Offer milk or water to Shivling with both hands—symbolising body and soul. Take a sankalp to remain calm in family matters and treat your work as seva. Mahadev lives not just in Kailash, but in your karmabhoomi (field of action). 808 is a number that teaches divine balance. How to Receive These Messages with Bhakti Many devotees ask, "Are these just numbers, or truly divine signs?" The answer lies in your bhaav (intention). If your heart is filled with surrender and simplicity, then yes, these numbers become Mahadev's sanket to you. During Sawan, the veil between this world and the divine realm becomes thinner. Every Monday, the earth is filled with Shiva tattva. If your eyes and heart are open, you will notice these signs not as coincidences, but as blessings. Here are a few simple ways to become more receptive: Wake up before sunrise and do a short namaskar to the East. Keep your food satvik (pure) and light. Offer water to the Sun and pray for Shiva's presence in every karma. Avoid harsh speech, especially on Somvar. Keep silence for 11 minutes daily and listen to your breath. Shiva speaks to those who are quiet enough to listen. These numbers are his way of holding your hand, saying, "I am with you. Keep walking." Whether it is 111, 108, or 808, each number that appears during Sawan Somvar is dipped in divine grace. They are like the footprints of Shiva leading you home. Do not ignore them. Welcome them with folded hands. Let them become your daily dhyan. This Sawan, let your eyes not only see these numbers but feel them. Let your mind not only decode their meaning, but also bow to the truth behind them. In the world of Mahadev, even a whisper becomes a mantra, and even a number becomes a teaching. Discover everything about astrology at the Times of India , including daily horoscopes for Aries , Taurus , Gemini , Cancer , Leo , Virgo , Libra , Scorpio , Sagittarius , Capricorn , Aquarius , and Pisces .
Time of India
13-07-2025
- General
- Time of India
First Sawan Somwar 2025 Date and Time: Check puja vidhi, fasting rules, do's & don'ts, and what to offer Lord Shiva
Sawan Somvar, observed on Mondays during the sacred month of Sawan (Shravan), holds deep spiritual significance for devotees of Lord Shiva. In 2025, the first Sawan Somvar falls on July 14, marking the beginning of a spiritually rich period filled with fasting, prayers, and rituals. Devotees believe that observing the Sawan Somvar vrat can invite divine blessings for good health, harmonious relationships, and spiritual growth. However, many—especially those new to the practice—often make unintentional errors that can lessen the spiritual impact or compromise the sanctity of the fast. Sawan First Somwar 2025: Shiv Puja Vidhi and Offerings Here's a step-by-step guide to performing Shiv Puja on the first Sawan Somwar with devotion and purity: How to Perform Shiv Puja: Rise early during Brahma Muhurat, take a bath, and wear clean, fresh clothes. Sprinkle Ganga Jal to purify your puja area. Set up the puja space with idols or images of Lord Shiva, Goddess Parvati, and Lord Ganesha. Take a Sankalp (vow) to observe the fast with complete dedication. Perform Abhishek of the Shivling using Gangajal, milk, and Panchamrit. Offer sacred items such as Bel Patra, Dhatura, Bhang, white flowers, fruits, sweets, and raw rice to Lord Shiva. Light a ghee diya (lamp) and incense sticks. Chant 'Om Namah Shivaya' at least 108 times with devotion. Perform Shiv Aarti and pray for health, happiness, and spiritual growth. Maintain a fast with only fruits, and break it the next morning after offering daan (donation) to the needy. Special Bhog (Offerings) for Lord Shiva Devotees prepare and offer the following items to please Bholenath on this auspicious day: Kheer (sweet rice pudding) Bel fruit White sweets like peda or barfi Thandai (a refreshing milk-based drink) Sawan First Somwar 2025: Date, Timings & Significance Event Time First Sawan Somwar Monday, July 14, 2025 Brahma Muhurat 4:15 AM to 5:00 AM Abhijeet Muhurat 12:00 PM to 12:50 PM Pradosh Kaal 7:15 PM to 8:45 PM Shravan Month: Essential Do's and Don'ts Fasting with Devotion To seek the blessings of Lord Shiva during Shravan, devotees should observe fasts and engage in various rituals dedicated to the deity. Live Events Adopt a Sattvik Lifestyle Those observing Shravan vrat should embrace a sattvik (pure and balanced) way of living, which promotes inner peace and creates a spiritually uplifting environment. Maintain Purity and Cleanliness Devotees must ensure cleanliness throughout the month—especially when performing rituals like havan, preparing bhog (sacred food), and cleaning the puja area before worship. Chanting Sacred Mantras Reciting mantras during this holy month is highly beneficial. Shravan is considered one of the most sacred months, and regular chanting deepens spiritual connection and brings divine grace. Engage in Prayer and Meditation Devotees are encouraged to practice yoga and meditation during this auspicious time. These practices help achieve mental clarity, inner calm, and spiritual focus. Practice Celibacy Maintaining celibacy during Shravan is recommended, as it helps in gaining control over the senses and creating a spiritually pure atmosphere. Avoid Tamasik Foods Consumption of tamasik (impure) foods—such as onions, garlic, eggs, and non-vegetarian dishes—is prohibited during Shravan. Such foods are believed to hinder spiritual growth. Daily Temple Visits Attending temple rituals regularly during Shravan enhances spiritual well-being and strengthens one's devotion to Lord Shiva. Refrain from Alcohol and Tobacco Devotees must strictly avoid alcohol and tobacco throughout the month, as indulging in such habits is considered inauspicious and draws negative energies. Avoid Dairy Products It is traditionally advised to stay away from dairy items like curd, milk, and buttermilk during Sawan, as they are believed to interfere with the vrat's sanctity. Speak Kindly, Avoid Negativity Devotees should avoid harsh words and negative conversations. Treating others with respect and kindness is a core value to uphold during Shravan. Engage in Charity Acts of kindness and charity are especially meaningful during Shravan. Helping the needy and offering donations are highly favored by Lord Shiva and believed to bring blessings and spiritual merit. Mantra for chanting in Sawan Devotees recite powerful Shiva mantras, especially during the Sawan Somwar fasts. The most commonly recited mantras include: 'Om Namah Shivaye..!!' 'Om Trayambhakam Jayamahe Sugandhim Pushti Vardhanam Urvarukmiv Bandhanan Mrityor Mukshiya Ma Mritat..!!' Economic Times WhatsApp channel )
Time of India
13-07-2025
- General
- Time of India
First Somvar Vrat in Sawan 2025: Do's and Don'ts for attracting success
Sawan Somvar, the Mondays that fall during the holy month of Sawan (Shravan), are among the most spiritually potent days for Lord Shiva devotees. In 2025, the first Sawan Somvar falls on July 14, setting the tone for a month filled with devotion, fasting, prayer, and rituals. Observing Sawan Somvar vrat (fast) is believed to bring blessings in health, relationships, and spiritual evolution. However, many devotees—especially beginners—unknowingly commit mistakes that dilute the spiritual essence or disrupt the intended discipline of the fast. Let us explore the five most common mistakes people make while observing the Sawan Somvar vrat, particularly on the first Monday. Whether you're a first-time devotee or a seasoned follower, avoiding these pitfalls will help you experience the true sanctity and power of the vrat. 1. Ignoring the Purity of Food (Vrat Bhojan) One of the most common mistakes is consuming the wrong type of food during the fast. The spiritual and energetic purity of vrat bhojan (fasting food) is essential during Sawan Somvar. Many people unknowingly include ingredients that are strictly prohibited during this fast, such as salt (including rock salt in some traditions), grains, pulses, or processed food items that contain additives not aligned with fasting norms. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Dukung Orang Terkasih Menghadapi Limfoma: Mulai Di Sini Limfoma Klik Di Sini Undo Even ingredients like onion, garlic, or table salt, which are typically avoided in most Hindu vrats, are sometimes used by mistake. These items are considered tamasic, meaning they increase lethargy, emotional disturbance, and cloud spiritual clarity. Instead, vrat foods should be sattvic—simple, fresh, and full of pranic energy. Commonly accepted items include fruits, milk, yoghurt, boiled potatoes, sweet potatoes, sabudana (tapioca pearls), kuttu (buckwheat), singhara (water chestnut flour), and fresh coconut water. Additionally, cooking utensils should be clean and separate from those used for regular meals. If possible, prepare food with a calm, meditative mind, ideally chanting or listening to Shiva mantras while cooking. This brings vibrational alignment to your offering and enhances the purity of your fast. 2. Treating the Fast as a Diet or Social Trend In the age of wellness culture and social media trends, fasting during Sawan is sometimes mistaken for a detox diet or spiritual fad. While the health benefits of Sawan vrat are real—such as digestive rest, hormonal balance, and mental clarity—the spiritual purpose far outweighs the physical. A common mistake is fasting without internal intention. People may skip meals but remain angry, anxious, or distracted throughout the day. They may even indulge in screen time or gossip, defeating the purpose of inner purification. Remember, Sawan Somvar vrat is not merely about abstaining from food—it's about disciplining the body and elevating the mind. Lord Shiva represents stillness, introspection, and transcendence. Fasting during Sawan is symbolic of withdrawing from worldly indulgences to connect with that inner silence. Even if you're only fasting partially, approach it with the bhava (intention) of surrender, not as a checkbox or challenge. This small shift transforms the vrat into a sacred offering. 3. Neglecting the Timing and Simplicity of Rituals Another frequent mistake is not honouring the time-specific rituals associated with Sawan Somvar. Many people perform puja at random times or rush through it without understanding its flow. In Vedic tradition, timing (muhurta) is key to maximising the spiritual current of any practice. For example, the Brahma Muhurat (around 4:00–6:00 AM) is considered the best time to bathe and begin prayers. Ideally, one should perform Abhishek (ritual bath of the Shivling) in the early hours and continue with mantra chanting or silent meditation throughout the day. Another mistake is over-complication of the puja itself. While elaborate rituals have their place, they are not necessary for everyone. Devotees often get caught up in externalities—types of milk, exact numbers of Bilva leaves, arrangement of flowers—and forget the inner devotion. Lord Shiva, known as Bhola Bhandari, accepts even a single drop of water with pure devotion. If you're unsure about the full puja process, keep it simple. Offer clean water or milk to the Shivling, chant 'Om Namah Shivaya' 108 times, light a lamp, and sit in silence for a few minutes. This minimalist approach, done with sincerity, can be more spiritually rewarding than a mechanical, elaborate ritual. 4. Not Preparing Mentally or Emotionally Many people enter the Sawan vrat without preparing themselves mentally or emotionally. Fasting is not just a physical act—it is a form of tapasya (austerity), which requires inner stability and intention. If the fast is observed while carrying resentment, stress, or emotional volatility, the very purpose of calming the mind is defeated. Emotional and mental preparation begins the night before. Avoid arguments, heavy meals, or overstimulation (like binge-watching or overuse of social media). Instead, read or listen to stories of Lord Shiva, chant mantras, or journal your intentions for the vrat. On the day of the fast, be mindful of your thoughts, reactions, and speech. Speak kindly, forgive easily, and maintain a gentle pace throughout the day. These subtler aspects often go unnoticed but play a huge role in the success of your vrat. Remember, the energy you carry is the offering you make. 5. Overlooking Consistency and Closure One last mistake is starting with great enthusiasm but failing to maintain consistency throughout the month. Devotees often fast diligently on the first Sawan Somvar but gradually become lax in the following weeks. The initial energy is not sustained, and the spiritual build-up is interrupted. Sawan is about accumulative energy—each Monday deepens your alignment with Shiva. Missing fasts or treating subsequent Mondays casually reduces this cumulative effect. To avoid this, plan your Mondays in advance. Set reminders, prepare simple sattvic food the night before, and create a supportive environment that encourages continuity. Another often-overlooked aspect is closing the vrat with gratitude and reflection. At the end of the day, offer a final prayer expressing what the vrat meant to you, what you learned, or how you felt. Thank Lord Shiva for the strength and clarity to observe the fast. This simple act of reflection seals the spiritual energy and allows it to integrate into your life. Discover everything about astrology at the Times of India , including daily horoscopes for Aries , Taurus , Gemini , Cancer , Leo , Virgo , Libra , Scorpio , Sagittarius , Capricorn , Aquarius , and Pisces .
