Shrawan: The Sacred Month of the Nepali Calendar

Shrawan, known as the holy month in the Nepali calendar, holds deep spiritual significance for devout Hindus. Typically occurring from mid-July to mid-August, the first day of this auspicious period, Shrawan Sankranti, heralds its beginning.

Mondays in Shrawan are especially venerated, as they are dedicated to Lord Shiva, one of Hinduism's principal deities. Women engage in fasting rituals every Monday, visiting temples like Pashupatinath and Makhan Hanumandhoka in Kathmandu to offer their prayers. These fasts are observed with the hope of securing the health and long life of their husbands. Adorned in red saree and kurta suruwals, and with bangles in green, red, and yellow, married women partake in these customs. Young girls also participate, praying for a good future spouse while wearing vibrant bangles

A distinctive aspect of Shrawan is the decoration of women's hands with colorful bangles and intricate Mehndi (henna) designs. Mehndi holds considerable importance during this month, symbolizing love and devotion towards loved ones. The colorful bangles and Mehndi represent the essence of Shrawan's spirit.

The month of Shrawan is deeply rooted in the veneration of Lord Shiva, regarded as the destroyer of evil and the creator. Devotees believe that prayers offered to Lord Shiva during this time bring blessings, prosperity, and spiritual growth. Pashupatinath Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Kathmandu, is a central place of worship during Shrawan, drawing thousands of devotees seeking blessings. Another significant temple is Doleshwor Mahadeva in Bhaktapur, believed to house the severed head of Lord Shiva. Pilgrims consider it highly auspicious to visit this temple and offer prayers.

Fasting is a central practice in Shrawan, symbolizing purification of the mind, body, and soul. On Mondays, devotees abstain from food and water until they have performed evening prayers to Lord Shiva. This fasting is seen as a form of self-discipline and devotion, allowing individuals to focus on spiritual matters. Many also refrain from meat, alcohol, and other indulgences throughout the month. Concentrating on these aspects, accommodations such as the Holiday Inn Express Kathmandu Naxal pay particular emphasis to their fully vegetarian meals.

Beyond its religious aspects, Shrawan fosters a strong sense of community and cultural unity. Families, friends, and neighbors come together, sharing joy and preparing for upcoming festivals like Teej and Raksha Bandhan, which are celebrated with great enthusiasm.

In essence, Shrawan is a month of profound religious and cultural significance in the Nepali calendar. It is marked by the worship of Lord Shiva, fasting, and the adornment of Mehndi and colorful bangles. Sacred sites like Pashupatinath and Doleshwor Mahadeva attract pilgrims seeking divine blessings. Festivals such as Naag Panchami add vibrancy to this sacred period, bringing people together in celebration and anticipation. Embrace the spirit of Shrawan and immerse yourself in its rich traditions and devotions.