The auspicious month of Sawan is commencing on July 11, 2025. This month is considered a special time for worshiping Lord Shiva. Devotees offer water, milk, Bel leaves, and flowers on the Shivling throughout the month so that they may have happiness and peace in their lives through the grace of Mahadev. Religious belief holds that if certain special flowers are offered to Lord Shiva with devotion during the month of Sawan, the obstacles in life are removed.
The Special Role of Flowers in Scriptures
According to the Puranas and religious texts, there are some special flowers that are offered to Lord Shiva, which please Bholenath (Shiva) quickly. These flowers not only enhance the beauty of the worship but are also believed to possess spiritual energy. Offering these flowers on the Shivling during this special time of Sawan is considered very auspicious.
Dhatura Flower - Symbol of Shiva's Destroyer Form
Dhatura is considered a poisonous plant, but this flower is very dear to Lord Shiva. It is associated with his 'Vishahar' (destroyer of poison) form. Scriptures mention that when the 'Halahal' poison emerged during the churning of the ocean, Shiva held it in his throat. Since then, Dhatura has held special importance in his worship. Offering white Dhatura flowers on the Shivling in Sawan eliminates negative energy.
Bel Leaves - Symbol of the Three Qualities
The worship of Lord Shiva is considered incomplete without Bel leaves. Offering a tridal (three-leafed) Bel leaf on the Shivling in Sawan is considered particularly fruitful. Its three leaves symbolize the Sattva, Rajas, and Tamas qualities. Offering this destroys sins and brings merit. It should be noted that the Bel leaf should not be broken or infested with insects.
Aak, Akand, and Madar Flowers - Bestowers of Freedom from Diseases
Aak, Akand, or Madar flowers have special significance in the worship of Lord Shiva. Offering these flowers on the Shivling removes diseases, afflictions, and mental unrest. These flowers are considered symbols of the peace and ascetic energy of the Himalayas. Worshiping with these flowers in Sawan maintains balance and prosperity in the home.
Red Hibiscus Flower - A Sign of Strength and Positivity
The hibiscus flower is usually offered to Goddess Durga, but the red hibiscus is also very dear to Lord Shiva. Offering this flower brings enthusiasm and positive energy into a person's life. It also increases prosperity and self-confidence. Offering it on the Shivling in Sawan yields special spiritual benefits.
Mogra and Jasmine - Symbols of Beauty and Peace
Mogra and jasmine flowers are known for their fragrance, and both these flowers are very dear to Lord Shiva. The gentle fragrance of mogra provides mental peace, and jasmine is considered a symbol of spiritual progress. Worshiping the Shivling with these flowers in Sawan increases concentration and maintains mental balance.
Blue Lotus - A Rare but Effective Flower
The blue lotus flower is dear to both Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu. This flower is a symbol of peace-giving energy and deep meditation. Offering it during the month of Sawan brings peace, good fortune, and happiness. Although the blue lotus flower is not easy to find, it is given special importance in Sawan.
Chrysanthemum Flower - Symbol of Devotion and Reverence
Chrysanthemum is also known as Guldaudi. This flower is a symbol of beauty, reverence, and purity. Offering it on the Shivling brings positive changes in life and maintains happiness and peace in the home. This flower is especially used by women in Shiva worship.
Rules for Offering These Flowers
It is necessary to follow certain rules while offering flowers on the Shivling in Sawan. The flowers should be fresh, and they should be washed with water before the worship. The Bel leaves should not be inverted, and the flowers should never be offered from above a serpent idol.
