The month of Sawan is considered one of the most sacred months dedicated to Lord Shiva. In 2025, Sawan will begin on July 11th and continue until August 9th. During this entire month, millions of devotees observe fasts, perform Jalabhishek (anointing the Shiva Lingam with water), and offer Bel leaves (Bilva leaves). The first day of Sawan is also considered very special for devotees. There are several auspicious timings for Shiva Puja on this day, during which worshiping Lord Shiva is believed to bring special blessings.
Why is the Bel leaf important in Sawan?
Bel leaves are extremely dear to Lord Shiva. According to religious beliefs, the three-leafed Bel leaf symbolizes the Tridevas - Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh. The Shiv Purana also mentions that whoever offers Bel leaves with devotion is freed from sins and has all their wishes fulfilled.
The significance of offering Bel leaves in the month of Sawan increases even more. During this time, Shiva devotees especially collect Bel leaves, wash them, and offer them to the Shiva Lingam with the recitation of mantras. But there is also a specific method for offering them, which must be followed.
What is the correct method for offering Bel leaves?
When you offer Bel leaves to the Shiva Lingam in Sawan, pay special attention to these points:
- Bel leaves should always be clean. There should be no torn or insect-infested leaves.
- Wash the leaves thoroughly with water first.
- Place the smooth upper surface of the leaves towards the Shiva Lingam.
- Recite the mantra "ॐ नमः शिवाय" or "ॐ त्र्यम्बकाय नमः" while offering the Bel leaves.
- Writing "ॐ" with sandalwood on the Bel leaf before offering it brings special blessings.
- A Bel leaf that has been offered once should not be used again.
Auspicious timings for the first day of Sawan
On the first day of Sawan, i.e., July 11, 2025, there will be several auspicious timings throughout the day, during which performing Shiva Puja is considered highly beneficial. Information about these major timings is given below:
- Brahma Muhurta: 4:16 AM to 5:04 AM
- Amrit Choghadiya: 8:27 AM to 10:06 AM
- Abhijit Muhurta: 12:05 PM to 12:58 PM
- Godhuli Muhurta: 7:22 PM to 7:41 PM
Offering water, Bel leaves, milk, and flowers to the Shiva Lingam during these times is considered highly auspicious.
Special significance of worship in Pradosh Kaal
During Sawan, the worship of Shiva in Pradosh Kaal is said to have special significance. This period is the time from sunrise to before sunset. Shiva worship performed during this time brings inner peace, family happiness, and fulfillment of wishes. Devotees perform Abhishek of the Shiva Lingam with water, milk, honey, curd, and ghee during this time.
Things to avoid offering to the Shiva Lingam in Sawan
Lord Shiva is considered a calm and simple deity, but there are some things in his worship that should not be offered to the Shiva Lingam by mistake. Let's know about such things:
- Tulsi leaves: It is believed that Lord Shiva killed the husband of Tulsi in her previous birth, due to which Tulsi was displeased with Shiva. Therefore, offering Tulsi leaves to the Shiva Lingam is prohibited.
- Turmeric: It is dedicated to Goddess Parvati and is considered inauspicious to offer it to the Shiva Lingam.
- Sindoor: It is specifically used in the worship of the Goddess; its use is prohibited in Shiva Puja.
- Ketaki, Oleander, and Lotus flowers: These flowers are also considered forbidden in Shiva Puja.
- Broken or rotten fruits or flowers: All items offered to Lord Shiva should be pure and fresh.
Special significance of Jalabhishek
Offering water to the Shiva Lingam in Sawan has special significance. It represents peace, purity, and the devotion of the seeker. Many devotees also perform Rudrabhishek with Ganga water, milk, curd, ghee, honey, and sugar. This method of worship is considered even more meritorious, especially on Mondays.
Chant Shiva Mantras
Chanting Shiva mantras during the Puja provides mental and spiritual strength. Chanting "ॐ नमः शिवाय," "Mahamrityunjaya Mantra," and "Shiva Panchakshari Mantra" is considered very effective.
Fasts and rules in Sawan
Observing fasts on Sawan Mondays is also part of the tradition. During this time, devotees consume a fruit-based diet and spend the day in worship and rituals, taking the name of Lord Shiva. Fasting, along with restraint, a sattvic diet, and devotion, are considered essential.
