Devotees Celebrate Sawan Purnima and Raksha Bandhan at Lord Shiva Temples Across India
On August 19, devotees gathered at Lord Shiva temples across India to celebrate Sawan Purnima and the last Monday of the Sawan month. In Patna, Gwalior, Ujjain, Deoghar, Bilimora, and Ayodhya, worshippers offered prayers, bel leaves, milk, and garlands to Lord Shiva. The festival of Raksha Bandhan was also observed, with many praying for the bond between brothers and sisters.
Shravan, usually falling between July and August, is a period of worship, fasting, and pilgrimage dedicated to Lord Shiva. According to Hindu mythology, Shravan is the month when Lord Shiva consumed the poison that emerged from the churning of the ocean (Samudra Manthan), saving the universe from its toxic effects. During this period, devotees fast and offer prayers, seeking the blessings of Lord Shiva. The rains of Shravan are seen as a symbol of Lord Shiva’s compassion and benevolence.
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Sawan Purnima -: Sawan Purnima is a special full moon day in the Hindu month of Shravan (July-August). It is a time when people worship Lord Shiva and celebrate various rituals.
Raksha Bandhan -: Raksha Bandhan is a festival celebrating the bond between brothers and sisters. Sisters tie a protective thread called ‘rakhi’ on their brothers’ wrists, and brothers promise to protect them.
Lord Shiva -: Lord Shiva is a major Hindu god known as the destroyer and transformer. He is often worshipped during the month of Shravan.
Patna -: Patna is the capital city of the Indian state of Bihar. It is one of the places where people celebrated Sawan Purnima and Raksha Bandhan.
Gwalior -: Gwalior is a city in the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh. It is known for its historic temples and forts.
Ujjain -: Ujjain is a city in Madhya Pradesh, famous for its ancient temples and as a major pilgrimage site for Hindus.
Deoghar -: Deoghar is a city in Jharkhand, known for the Baidyanath Temple, which is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Bilimora -: Bilimora is a town in the Indian state of Gujarat. It is one of the places where people celebrated the festivals mentioned.
Ayodhya -: Ayodhya is a city in Uttar Pradesh, known as the birthplace of Lord Rama. It is a significant place for Hindu worship.
Bel leaves -: Bel leaves are sacred leaves used in the worship of Lord Shiva. They are believed to be very dear to him.
Shravan -: Shravan is a month in the Hindu calendar, usually falling in July-August. It is a time of fasting and worship, especially dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Hindu mythology -: Hindu mythology is a collection of traditional stories and legends about gods, goddesses, and heroes in Hinduism. It includes tales of creation, moral lessons, and the adventures of deities.
