As devotees across India prepare to welcome Lord Shiva's most sacred month, many are searching for the Sawan 2026 start date, complete Shravan month calendar, and the dates of Sawan Somwar fasts. According to the Hindu calendar followed in North India, Sawan (Shravan) begins on Thursday, July 30, 2026, and concludes on Friday, August 28, 2026. During these 30 days, millions of devotees observe Monday fasts, perform Shiva Abhishek, chant "Om Namah Shivaya ," and visit Shiva temples seeking blessings for health, prosperity, marriage, and spiritual growth.Here's everything you need to know about the Sawan 2026 calendar, important vrat dates, and festivals celebrated during this auspicious month.Why Is Sawan Considered the Holiest Month for Lord Shiva?Sawan, also known as Shravan Maas, is regarded as the most auspicious month dedicated to Lord Shiva. According to Hindu mythology, during the Samudra Manthan (Churning of the Ocean), Lord Shiva consumed the deadly poison Halahala to save the universe. To reduce its intense effects, the gods continuously offered sacred water to Shiva , a tradition that continues today through Jalabhishek on the Shivling.The month is also associated with the divine union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, making it especially significant for those praying for marital harmony, a suitable life partner , and family well-being.Sawan 2026 Calendar: Complete DatesEventDateDaySawan Begins30 July 2026ThursdayFirst Sawan Somwar3 August 2026MondaySecond Sawan Somwar10 August 2026MondayThird Sawan Somwar17 August 2026MondayFourth Sawan Somwar24 August 2026MondaySawan Ends28 August 2026FridaySawan Somwar 2026 DatesMondays during Shravan hold exceptional religious importance because they are dedicated to Lord Shiva. Devotees observe Sawan Somwar Vrat by fasting, offering milk, water, Bel Patra, dhatura, and flowers to the Shivling while chanting Shiva mantras.First Sawan Somwar – August 3, 2026The first Monday of Sawan marks the beginning of the sacred fasting period for many devotees. It is believed to bring peace, prosperity, and remove obstacles from life .Second Sawan Somwar – August 10, 2026This Somwar is considered ideal for praying for career growth, financial stability, and family happiness.Third Sawan Somwar – August 17, 2026Many unmarried devotees observe a strict fast on this day, seeking Lord Shiva's blessings for a suitable life partner.Fourth Sawan Somwar – August 24, 2026The final Monday fast is believed to complete the spiritual journey of Shravan and is observed with special Shiva pujas and temple visits.Major Festivals During Sawan 2026Apart from the Monday fasts, Sawan includes several important Hindu festivals celebrated across different regions of India.Hariyali TeejDedicated to Goddess Parvati, Hariyali Teej is celebrated with fasting, traditional swings, devotional songs, and prayers for marital happiness.Nag PanchamiThis festival honors serpent deities and commemorates Lord Shiva, who is depicted with a cobra around his neck. Devotees offer milk and prayers at temples.Raksha BandhanThe sacred festival celebrating the bond between brothers and sisters also falls during the Shravan period in many Hindu calendars.Shravan ShivratriObserved with night-long worship, fasting, and Shiva Abhishek, Shravan Shivratri is considered one of the most auspicious days to seek Lord Shiva's blessings.Shiva Puja Rituals During SawanDaily worship during Sawan generally includes:Offering water or Gangajal to the Shivling.Performing milk Abhishek.Offering Bel Patra, white flowers, dhatura, and sandalwood paste.Chanting "Om Namah Shivaya" or the Mahamrityunjaya Mantra.Reading or listening to Shiva Chalisa and Shiv Puran.These rituals are believed to purify the mind and attract divine blessings.Things to Keep in Mind During SawanMany devotees also observe traditional practices throughout the month, including:Maintaining simplicity in food and lifestyle.Avoiding tamasic foods such as onion, garlic, meat, and alcohol.Speaking truthfully and practicing kindness.Visiting Shiva temples, especially on Mondays.Performing charity and helping those in need.While customs vary by region and family tradition, devotion and sincerity are considered the most important aspects of Sawan worship.Disclaimer Statement: This content is authored by a 3rd party. The views expressed here are that of the respective authors/ entities and do not represent the views of Economic Times (ET). ET does not guarantee, vouch for or endorse any of its contents nor is responsible for them in any manner whatsoever. Please take all steps necessary to ascertain that any information and content provided is correct, updated, and verified. ET hereby disclaims any and all warranties, express or implied, relating to the report and any content therein.