Sawan Somwar 2025: What to do and avoid during this sacred fast
Wake up early and bathe before sunriseStart your day before sunrise, take a holy bath and wear clean clothes to begin the fast with a purified body and mind.
Visit a Shiva temple or offer prayers at homeOffer milk, water, honey and bel leaves to Lord Shiva. Chant “Om Namah Shivaya” and perform abhishekam to show devotion and seek blessings.
Observe a strict vegetarian fastConsume fruits, milk and satvik food only. Avoid grains and salt if following a nirjal or strict fast. Break your fast only after evening prayers.
Chant Shiva mantras and read scripturesRecite Shiva Chalisa, Rudrashtakam or Shiv Purana. Meditate and chant mantras like “Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra” for spiritual growth and peace.
Maintain purity in thoughts and conductStay calm, avoid anger and keep your mind focused on Lord Shiva. Practice truthfulness, compassion and humility throughout the day.
Do not consume garlic, onion or non-veg foodThese items are considered tamasic and should be strictly avoided during the vrat. Stick to satvik meals for purity and spiritual discipline.
Avoid alcohol, smoking and intoxicantsRefrain from any intoxicating substances. These actions are impure and contradict the sanctity and purpose of fasting and devotion.
Do not cut hair or nails on SomwarCutting hair or nails on this day is considered inauspicious and disrespectful to Lord Shiva according to traditional Hindu customs.
Avoid negative speech or argumentsStay away from gossip, harsh words or unnecessary arguments. Speak gently and focus your energy on prayers and self-discipline.
Do not ignore the evening pujaBreaking the fast without performing the evening puja is considered incomplete. Ensure you light a diya and offer prayers before ending the fast.