The month of Shrawan holds special significance for Hindus alike – along with the apparent lush green bounty of nature that surrounds us, we also see women of all walks of life adorned in green. In Nepal, the craze of Mehendi (henna pigment), green bangles, green beaded necklaces and green attire within women has already begun. Women, wearing green attire, bangles and beaded necklaces, queuing to get their palms decorated with henna tattoos was a common-sight in and around the capital on Wednesday, the first day of the month.
The month of Shrawan is a very sacred month for Hindus, especially for devotees of Lord Shiva – during this month, devotees pour water on Lord Shiva’s head, and women, along with wearing a piece of green are seen fasting on Mondays, but do you know why?
There is a mythology behind this.
A long time ago, during Shrawan, the Samudra Manthan (churning of the ocean) occurred. During the churning, the poison “halahala” came out and Lord Shiva drank the poison to save the world. However, the poison caused Lord Shiva’s body temperature to rise, and despite several attempts by Devi-Devtas, his temperature would not normalise. Lord Shiva then wore the moon on his head to reduce the temperature.
It is also believed Lord Indra cause heavy rain to reduce his temperature – therefore, we pour water on his head during Shrawan.
According to this legend, Devi Sati also sacrificed herself during this month – before sacrificing swearing she will marry Shiva in every succeeding life. Devi Sati was born as Parvati in her next life. She fasted during the month of Shrawan due to which Lord Shiva was impressed and they used to meet up on Monday. Therefore, Shrawan Mondays and fasting have a great importance in the month of Shrawan.
Disclaimer: NV does not endorse fasting within wo/men, and is merely telling the story for informational purposes.
