NEW DELHI : Sawan Shivratri is one of the most awaited days for Lord Shiva devotees. It falls in the holy month of Sawan (Shravan), a month that is already so dear to Shiv bhakts. For the unversed, Masik (monthly) Shivratri is observed on the Chaturdashi Tithi (14th lunar day) of the Krishna Paksha (waning phase of the moon) every month.
When this day comes in the month of Sawan, it is called Sawan Shivratri. This sacred observance is dedicated to Lord Shiva, and Goddess Parvati. On this auspicious day, devotees worship and offer prayers to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.
It is believed that observing this fast fulfils all desires of the devotee. Sawan Shivratri is especially beneficial for unmarried individuals, as it is thought to increase the chances of finding a suitable life partner. Additionally, it is said to bring prosperity and good fortune. However, many devotees are currently unsure about the exact date of Sawan Shivratri.
Date And Shubh Muhurat
Chaturdashi Tithi, the date on which Shivratri is observed, begins at 04:54 am on August 11, 2026 and ends at 01:52 am on August 12, 2026. Since Shivratri is a night-based festival, the Tithi prevailing during the night is what decides the date of observance, and that is why this year it is being celebrated on August 11.
For Jalabhishek, the auspicious window is quite long this year. Devotees can offer jal on the Shivling anytime from 04:54 am on August 11 to 01:52 am on August 12. The most important part of the day, though, is the Nishith Kaal Puja, which is considered the holiest time for worshipping Lord Shiva on Shivratri. This year, Nishith Kaal Puja falls between 12:05 am and 12:48 am on the night of August 11. It is believed that Lord Shiva appeared in the form of a Shivling at this exact time, which is why this short window holds so much importance for serious devotees.
Mantras To Chant On This Day
- Om Namah Shivaya
- Om Tryambakam Yajamahe
- Om Tatpurushaya Vidmahe Mahadevaya Dhimahi
- Om Namo Bhagavate Rudraya
- Om Samb Sadashiva Namo Namah
- Om Pashuptaya Namah
Puja Vidhi For This Day
- Those performing the puja at home can follow these customary steps:
- Place idols or pictures of Lord Shiva and his family on a clean surface
- Offer clean clothes and apply chandan (sandalwood paste).
- Perform abhishekam of the Shivalinga using Ganga jal, milk, curd, and honey.
- Offer bel leaves and flowers.
- Present fruits, wheat, and white sweets as offerings.
- Light a ghee lamp and chant Shiva mantras.
- Perform aarti and offer bhog.
- Conclude by donating food, milk, rice, or money to the needy.
Significance Of Sawan Shivratri
Shivratri is seen as the night Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati came together, a symbol of the union of energy. Sawan itself is the month when, according to belief, Lord Shiva consumed poison during the churning of the ocean (Samudra Manthan) to protect the universe, and Goddess Parvati is said to have performed penance in this month to get him as her husband. Observing Shivratri during Sawan is thought to bring double the blessings.
Devotees fast on this day, some keep a complete fast without food or water, while others take fruits and milk. The fast is broken only after the puja is completed, usually early morning the next day. It is widely believed that worshipping Lord Shiva with a sincere heart on this day removes obstacles, brings peace in married life, and grants good health and prosperity.
