Solah Somvar Vrat

By Author: Dr. Nilima Chitgopekar
Total Articles: 2
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Monday fasts or Solah Somvar vrats are kept for 16 consecutive Mondays. These fasts are dedicated to Lord Shiva. Lord Shiva is one of the most important deities in Hinduism. In fact he is an integral part of the holy Hindu trinity. Lord Brahma and Lord Vishnu are the other two deities of the Hindu trinity.

It is believed that goddess Parvati wanted to marry Lord Shiva and observed Solah Somvar fasts with immense devotion. Ever since then unmarried girls started keeping this fast and asking Lord Shiva to bless them with a life partner like himself.

You might have seen that devotees visit Shiv mandirs on Monday. This is because Monday is the day dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is believed that by observing the Solah Somvar fasts with full devotion and dedication, Lord Shiva blesses the devotees and fulfills their wishes as well.

Who can keep Solah Somvar vrat?

If you are facing obstacles in your married life or are looking for a perfect life partner, then keeping Monday fast dedicated to Lord Shiva would be highly beneficial for you. A large number of unmarried girls keep Monday fast to seek blessings of ...
... Lord Shiva and get a desired life partner. Many married women also keep this fast as a mark of gratitude and thanks to Lord Shiva.

Whether seeking a life companion or not, if you keep this fast with dedication and pray with commitment, Lord Shiva will surely bless you. Worshipping Lord Shiva during the Shravan month of the Hindu calendar is considered very auspicious. This entire month is dedicated to Lord Shiva.

When to begin Solah Somvar vrat?

Experts believe that Monday fasting would be beneficial if you start it from the first Monday of Shukla Paksh of Shravan month (June-July). As per your devotion, you can fast for 4 - 5 consecutive Mondays or 16 Mondays.

Rules for observing Solah Somvar vrat:

Following are some of the rules that you must keep in mind while observing Solah Somvar vrat.

- The fast begins at sunrise and is ended at sunset. During this 24 hour fast that devotees keep, they consume only water or tender coconut. Some devotees replace coconut with fruits, milk or nuts

- After having a bath in the morning and praying to Lord Shiva, you must recite or hear Solah Somvar katha

- Devotees visit Shiva temple in the morning and evening on the day of the fast. Just in case it is not possible, you can offer prayers to Lord Shiva from your home

- White colored clothes are worn by people observing this fast

- Usually white flowers are offered to the shiv lingam. In addition to white flowers you can also offer bel leaves, roli, fruits, milk and dhoop while praying

- The mantra chanted is 'Om Namah Shivay'

If you pray whole heartedly and have faith in Mahadev, you will surely receive the gift of his immense blessings and gratification.