Sawan Shivratri, Janmashtami, Raksha Bandhan and more: Upcoming Hindu festivals [July and August]

Mumbai: As the monsoon rains nurture the earth, July and August usher in a series of significant Hindu festivals that are celebrated with fervour and devotion. This period, marked by the sacred month of Sawan, is filled with auspicious occasions that hold deep religious and cultural importance. Among the key festivals to observe are Sawan Somwars, Janmashtami, Raksha Bandhan, and more. Each festival offers a unique opportunity to engage in traditional rituals, celebrate with loved ones, and reflect on spiritual values.

The month of Sawan dedicated to Lord Shiva holds special significance in Hinduism and is observed with immense devotion and reverence each year. During this time, Hindus celebrate a range of significant festivals.

Each day of this month is dedicated to the worship of Lord Mahadev. Among the important dates during this period are the Monday fasts, Sawan Pradosh Vrat, and Sawan Shivratri, all of which are considered particularly auspicious for Lord Shiva. Observing rituals on these days is believed to bring desired blessings and prosperity.

During Sawan, devotees participate in the Kanwar Yatra and observe fasts on Sawan Somwars. Devotees perform rituals such as worshipping the Shiva Linga with offerings of water, milk, and honey. Shiva Kathas and mantras are recited to honour Lord Shiva and seek his blessings.

Sawan 2024 will be marked by five Sawan Somwar (Mondays), which are considered highly auspicious for Lord Shiva’s devotees:

First Sawan Somwar: July 22
Second Sawan Somwar: July 29
Third Sawan Somwar: August 5
Fourth Sawan Somwar: August 12
Fifth Sawan Somwar: August 19

Here’s a look at the key festivals celebrated during Sawan 2024:

1. Sawan Shivratri: This major festival will be observed on August 2 this year.

Sawan Shivratri 2024 (Pinterest)

Sawan Shivratri fasting will be observed on August 2, 2024. On Sawan Shivratri, devotees bathe before sunrise and wear clean clothes. Then, during Nishita Kaal Muhurat, they perform Abhishek (ritual bathing) of the Shiva Linga and recite the Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra 108 times. Light a four-faced lamp made from flour and recite Shiva Mantra and Shiva Chalisa.

2. Hariyali Teej: Scheduled for August 7.

3. Nag Panchami: Falls on August 9.

4. Raksha Bandhan: Will be celebrated on August 19. Each year, on the full moon day (Purnima) of the Hindu month of Shravan (Sawan), India comes alive with the heartwarming festival of Raksha Bandhan. This cherished celebration honours the enduring bond between brothers and sisters, a connection rooted in love and protection.

Raksha Bandhan 2024 (Pinterest)

Raksha Bandhan is steeped in captivating stories, one of which is rooted in the epic Mahabharata. It narrates the tale of Draupadi, the wife of the Pandava brothers. During a battle, Lord Krishna, a close ally and guide to the Pandavas, injured his finger. Draupadi, without hesitation, tore a piece of her sari and tied it around his wound. Moved by her act of selflessness, Lord Krishna promised to protect Draupadi from any future harm.

On this special day, sisters traditionally tie a sacred thread, known as Rakhi, around their brothers’ wrists. Often adorned with intricate designs and embellishments, the Rakhi represents the sister’s heartfelt wishes for her brother’s well-being. In return, the brother pledges to safeguard his sister for life, a commitment deeply ingrained in their hearts.

5. Kajari Teej: Marks the monsoon season on August 22.

6. Janmashtami: Will be celebrated on August 26. It is observed on the Ashtami Tithi of Krishna Paksha in the month of Bhadrapada, under the Rohini Nakshatra. Janmashtami, celebrated with great devotion, is dedicated to Lord Krishna and is considered highly auspicious.

Janmashtami 2024 (Canva)

This festival celebrates the birth of Lord Krishna, recognised as the eighth incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Devotees observe Janmashtami by worshipping Lord Krishna with deep reverence. It is believed that those who seek refuge in Lord Krishna and fast on this day are blessed with divine joy and their desires fulfilled.

According to Hindu tradition, Lord Krishna was born on Janmashtami to vanquish the demon king Kansa of Mathura. Devotees believe that fasting and earnestly chanting Lord Krishna’s name on this day will lead to the fulfilment of their wishes.

As we embrace the festive spirit of July and August, each celebration brings its own set of traditions and joys. Whether you are partaking in the divine rituals of Sawan Shivratri, rejoicing in the birth of Lord Krishna during Janmashtami, or tying the sacred Rakhi on Raksha Bandhan, these festivals enrich our lives and strengthen our cultural bonds. By staying informed about these key dates and their significance, you can fully immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of Hindu celebrations this season.

As the monsoon season unfolds, July and August bring a host of vibrant Hindu festivals. From the sacred observance of Sawan Shivratri to the joyous celebrations of Janmashtami and Raksha Bandhan, these months are rich with cultural and religious significance. Explore the important dates and the essence of each festival to make the most of these auspicious times. Events Lifestyle News -Fashion Trends, Beauty Tips, Celebrity Party News, Relationship advice, Travel and Food Tips