The Mondays of Shravan are the most auspicious days for the devotees of Lord Shiva. Many devotees follow a simple daily routine of meditation, prayers, worship of Lord Shiva and a vrat (fast).Some devotees follow the age-old practice and do not wash their hair on Shravan Somwar. The vrat is generally associated with spiritual discipline, self-control and austerity; however, the practices of the vrat vary from family to family, region to region, and tradition to tradition.
Why is there a restriction on washing hair on Shravan Somwar?
1. Today is a day of spiritual reflectionShravan Somwar is considered to be a very auspicious day for worshiping Lord Shiva. Devotees observing the vrat are advised to lead a simple life and avoid any kind of grooming. They have to spend the whole day praying, meditating, doing puja.2. No unnecessary physical activitiesThe many vrat traditions highlight the need for restraint and the giving up of excess objects. Some followers do not wash their hair during the day, so as to maintain their discipline.3. A sufficient quantity for a basic bathroomThe ritual-goer is allowed to take his normal bath in the morning, but he may not wash his hair. Then they can change clothes, take bath and get ready for their Shiva puja. Main objective is to keep cleanliness, piety and simplicity.4.The vrat practice is based on the basic principles of moderation and simplicityThe traditional interpretation of a vrat is not only about abstaining from certain foods. It may also mean the regulation of one’s daily activities, thoughts and habits. Therefore, for some devotees, abstinence from certain grooming practices is part of the discipline of restraint.5. The worship of Lord Shiva continues to be the main emphasisPeople preparing for the puja can take a bath, clean the area around them, offer water to Shivling and chant the mantra “Om Namah Shivaya”. They may also perform their traditional Shravan Somwar puja according to their family or regional traditions.
Do I need to stop washing my hair?
Devotees perform a variety of activities in no particular way. What is Shravan Somwar varies from family to family, community to community. Some do not wash their hair as part of the vrata discipline, while others wash their hair and perform their normal worship activities.To summarize, the Shravan Somwar is a ritual of self-discipline, prayer, devotion and worship of Lord Shiva. While honoring the spirit of the vrat, the followers are allowed to adhere to the practices of their family, community or spiritual tradition.Inputs from:
