The month of Sawan has begun, and across the country, devotees of Shiva are flocking to temples, Jyotirlingas, and pilgrimage sites. To please Bholenath (Lord Shiva), millions of devotees undertake Kanwar Yatras, perform Rudrabhishek, and organize special pilgrimages during this month. However, to make this religious journey successful and meaningful, certain things become extremely important. This journey is not just an excuse for taking photos or sightseeing, but a means of self-purification and connecting with the Shiva element.
Understand the Difference Between a Pilgrimage and a Tourism Trip
Those who embark on a journey to visit Shiva temples and Jyotirlingas need to understand that a pilgrimage is completely different from a regular tourism trip. While sightseeing may entertain the mind, a pilgrimage touches the soul.
Taking selfies at pilgrimage sites, shopping in the market, or wandering around in search of food weakens the purpose of the journey. The essence of a pilgrimage is an inward journey, a connection with the soul, and feeling the presence of God.
The Special Significance of Rudrabhishek in Shravan Maas
It is said in the Puranas and scriptures - 'Rudrabhishekam kurveeta masmatram dine dine' (Perform Rudrabhishek every day for a month). That is, if a person performs Rudrabhishek daily during the month of Shravan, they receive the special grace of Shiva. Devotees should observe restraint during this month, practice Nakt Vrat (eating one meal a day), and perform Jalabhishek or Panchamrit Abhishek of Lord Shiva daily.
Silence and Concentration of Mind Are Necessary
Those who undertake long pilgrimages, such as to Amarnath, Kedarnath, Kashi Vishwanath, or Mahakal, should maintain silence throughout the journey, chanting mantras. Instead of conversing with the outside world, listen to the voice of your own mind. Limit the use of mobile phones as much as possible. A bridge should be built between the mind and the soul - this will be the true meaning of the journey.
Let Go of the Desire to Be a VIP
There is a huge crowd in Shiva temples and large temples during Sawan. In such a situation, many people try to get VIP passes or special arrangements for quick darshan. But the scriptures indicate that everyone is equal in the court of God. The few seconds of darshan received after standing in line for hours can be the most precious moments of life.
Do not try to capture those moments in a mobile camera, but rather internalize them. Close your eyes and remember that image. This is the state of meditation, in which the soul unites with the divine.
Pay Special Attention to Diet
During the month of Shravan, and especially during a pilgrimage, it is necessary to eat a sattvic and limited diet. One should completely avoid substances like onion, garlic, non-vegetarian food, and alcohol. Eating too much fried food and outside food can lead to lethargy and ill health during the journey, which can ruin the purpose of the pilgrimage.
Consider Shiva as the Protector First
Many Shiva devotees begin their pilgrimage by tying a Rakhi to the Lord. This is a symbol that Shiva will be their protector first and foremost on the journey. In this holy month of Sawan, the first salutation to Lord Shiva and the first utterance of His name makes the entire journey special.
Calm the Mind Before Darshan
When you arrive for darshan at a temple or Jyotirlinga, do not be restless upon seeing the crowd. The haste for darshan can agitate the mind. Instead, when it's your turn for darshan, embrace that moment within yourself with a calm mind. Close your eyes and try to absorb that form in your heart. Doing so will imprint that form within you forever.
Increase Meditation and Sadhana After the Pilgrimage
When you return from the pilgrimage, feel the energy you received there. If possible, meditate every morning, remembering that darshan. This sustains spiritual energy for a long time and prevents the journey from going to waste.
The Journey to Shiva Temples is a Test of the Soul
The Shiva Yatra performed in Shravan is not just a religious duty, but a test of the soul. One has to pass the test of restraint, discipline, and sacrifice. Only then does one receive the grace of Shiva.
