With the first of the four ‘Shravan Somvar’ observed on July 28, followed by Nag Panchami on July 29, Maharashtra has stepped into the vibrant and spiritually rich festive season.
Shravan Somvar: An Auspicious Beginning
The holy month of Shravan began on July 25 in many parts of the country, including Maharashtra, though regional calendars may differ. As per Hindu traditions, Shravan is dedicated to Lord Shiva, and Mondays are especially significant for His worship. These four Mondays are considered highly sacred, prompting devotees to fast and offer special prayers.
Lord Shiva Worship Gains Significance in Shravan
Priest Nachiket Kojarekar Bhatt explained the spiritual importance of this time, saying, “During the period of chaturmas, or four months, Vishnu, the preserver, goes into Shayan, or sleep, leaving Shiva in charge of preservation. So, people pray to Lord Shiva during these months. Shravan is also called ‘Shiv Mas’ because of this.”
Women Celebrate Mangala Gaur in Devotion to Goddess Gauri
In Maharashtra, Shravan holds immense significance for women too. Tuesdays are dedicated to Mangala Gaur, a celebration observed mainly by newly married women in honor of Goddess Gauri (Parvati). These rituals often continue for up to 16 Tuesdays throughout the chaturmas period.
Narali Poornima: Coastal Maharashtra’s Traditional Ritual
In the state’s coastal regions, preparations are underway for Narali Poornima, which marks the beginning of the fishing season after a monsoon break. On this day, coconuts are offered to the sea as a mark of respect and gratitude, symbolizing the return of safer waters for fishermen and marine conservation.
A Festival-Packed Calendar Ahead
As monsoon showers bring life and prosperity, Maharashtra looks forward to a long lineup of festivals. Here’s what the calendar looks like:
- July 29: Nag Panchami
- August 9: Narali Poornima / Raksha Bandhan
- August 16: Krishna Janmashtami / Dahi Handi
- August 26 – September 5: Onam
- August 27: Ganesh Chaturthi
- September 4–5: Eid-e-Milad
- September 22: Sharad Navratri begins
- September 22 – October 2: Navratri
- September 28: Durga Puja begins
- October 1: Maha Navami
- October 2: Dussehra / Vijayadashami
- October 6: Sharad Poornima
- October 9–10: Karwa Chauth
- October 17–23: Diwali celebrations
- October 18: Dhanteras
- October 20: Naraka Chaturdashi / Diwali
- October 22: Govardhan Puja
- October 23: Bhai Dooj / Bhau Beej
- October 28: Surya Shasti / Chhath Puja
- December 25: Christmas
With the city already immersed in rituals and devotion, Mumbai is all set for a colorful, joyous, and spiritually uplifting festive season.
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