With the first of the four 'Shravan Somvar' observed on July 28, and Nag Panchami today, Mumbai ushered in the long festival season.
Shravan Somvar Marks Beginning of Auspicious Period
Shravan in many regions, including Maharashtra, began on July 25, though dates vary across the country. In the Hindu calendar, Shravan is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Mondays are traditionally devoted to the worship of the deity. Therefore, the four Mondays of the month are considered very auspicious, and devotees observe fasts during the period.
Lord Shiva Worship Takes Centre Stage in Shravan
Priest Nachiket Kojarekar Bhatt said that 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," said Bhatt.
Women Observe Mangala Gaur in Honour of Goddess Gauri
Shravan is an important spiritual period in Maharashtra, with celebrations such as Mangala Gaur. Women, especially those who are newly married, observe fasting and rituals on Tuesdays of the month in devotion to Goddess Gauri, or Parvati, the consort of Lord Shiva. Sometimes, the rituals are followed on the 16 Tuesdays of the chaturmas.
Coastal Maharashtra Prepares for Narali Poornima
In the coastal areas of the state, Narali Poornima heralds the revival of fishing, which is suspended during the peak of the monsoon for the safety of fishermen and the conservation of marine life during the breeding season. The offering of coconuts to sea marks the day.
The festivals that follow the monsoon reflect the prosperity that results from the life-giving rains
Full Festival Calendar Ahead
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: First day of Sharad Navratri
September 22 - October 2: Navratri
September 28: First day of Durga Puja
October 1: Maha Navami
October 2: Dussehra/Vijaydashami
October 6: Sharad Poornima
October 9-10: Karaka Chaturthi/Karva Chauth
October 17-23: Diwali
October 18: Dhanteras
October 20: Naraka Chaturdashi/Diwali
October 22: Govardhan Puja
October 23: Bhai Dooj/Bhau Beej
October 28: Surya Shasti/Chhat Puja/Shasti Puja
December 25: Christmas
