The Real Essence of Sawan Somvar: Myths, Beliefs & the Path to True Devotion | The Diffr Show Ep 46
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Introduction
As the holy month of Sawan (Shravan) begins, millions of devotees across India observe the ritual of “Sawan Somvar Vrat” — a fast on Mondays dedicated to Lord Shiva. This tradition, deeply rooted in Sanatan Dharma, has long been regarded as a means to gain divine blessings. But is fasting alone truly the way to win the grace of Mahadev? Or have modern interpretations and trends clouded the original essence of devotion?
In this blog, we delve deep into the true purpose, rituals, and beliefs around Sawan Somvar and separate spiritual discipline from superficial practices.
What Is the True Meaning of Upvaas (Fasting)?
In Sanskrit, upvaas means “being near the Divine.” The real essence of fasting is not about giving up food, but about internal cleansing — distancing oneself from negative emotions like jealousy, deceit, pride, or anger and immersing the mind in the remembrance of God.
Fasting ≠ Bargaining with God
Today, especially among the youth, fasting is often linked with desires — a better spouse, success in exams, or career breakthroughs. While having intentions isn’t wrong, believing that a fast alone will fulfill all desires is misguided. Upvaas should not be treated as a transaction but as a tool to develop spiritual discipline and self-control.
Modern Misinterpretations & Spiritual Showmanship
In the digital age, social media has made even worship a performance. From reels showing temple visits to documenting fasts, many are more focused on content creation than sincere devotion. This leads to a growing culture of “rituals for visibility,” where the spiritual depth is replaced by superficial gestures.
True bhakti (devotion) is internal. It doesn’t require an audience.
The Misuse of Shiva Worship: Myths Around Intoxication
One of the most dangerous misinterpretations is the justification of substance abuse in the name of Lord Shiva. Misguided individuals claim that Lord Shiva consumed intoxicants and use this to justify drinking alcohol or smoking during temple visits — especially to temples like Kaal Bhairav in Ujjain.
What’s the Truth?
- Lord Shiva is a yogi — his intoxication is of divine consciousness, not substances.
- Items like bhang or madira (liquor) offered symbolically are not for consumption.
- Using religion to justify indulgence in intoxication is a serious distortion of Dharma.
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Devotion Over Rituals: Does Shiva Get Angry If You Skip a Fast?
Contrary to popular fear-based beliefs, Lord Shiva is not angry if you miss a ritual. Shiva is known as “Bhole Bhandari” — the kind and forgiving one. What truly pleases him is a pure heart and sincere intention. Worship done out of love, not fear, is what matters.
Is Worship Gender-Specific? The Debate Around Women Touching Shivling
Some Vedic scriptures advise women not to touch the Shivling, citing ancient symbolic reasons. However, modern spiritual leaders stress that the divine sees no gender and that devotion is what counts most. Offering prayers and water from a distance, if it comforts your belief system, is acceptable — but it should never be rooted in fear.
Sawan Vrat for Marriage: Faith or Blind Belief?
Many girls observe Sawan Somvar Vrat to get a good husband, inspired by legends like Sita’s worship of Parvati. While the intent may be pure, assuming the fast guarantees a result without aligning inner character and values is flawed.
A meaningful vrat should be accompanied by:
- Simplicity in ritual
- Purity of mind and heart
- Minimal expectations
What If You Don’t Have Time or Resources for Elaborate Pujas?
Not everyone has access to temples or the ability to perform elaborate rituals. For such devotees, the scriptures recommend the “Shiv Manas Stotra” — a powerful mental prayer that allows one to offer all elements of worship spiritually through visualization. Just 5–7 minutes daily can connect you deeply with Mahadev.
How to Identify True Devotion vs. Pretension
- If your worship includes recording videos and sharing them for likes, you may be losing focus on God.
- If your heart is clean, you can even offer a simple lotta (vessel) of water and earn divine grace.
- If your worship is rooted in ego or showoff, even the most expensive offerings are rejected by the Divine.
The Importance of Guru & Right Guidance
Without correct knowledge, spiritual practices can become superstition. That’s why our traditions emphasize the role of a Guru — not just a priest or influencer, but someone who guides you with integrity and wisdom. One should not blindly follow, but also not become so skeptical that every teacher is rejected.
Faith Before Knowledge
As explained in the Ramcharitmanas, “Shraddha” (faith) and “Vishwas” (trust) are prerequisites for true knowledge. Faith opens the door to inner transformation, allowing spiritual wisdom to be absorbed fully. Without it, even the most profound teachings remain ineffective.
Conclusion: Back to the Basics
In this age of content-driven devotion, it’s time to return to the root — the heart. The month of Sawan and the observance of Somvar Vrat is not about rules and rituals alone. It’s an opportunity to reflect, purify, and connect deeply with the Divine.
If you’re short on time or resources, don’t worry. What matters is the purity of your mind, not the quantity of your offerings. Let your bhakti be silent, soulful, and sincere — that’s the real worship Lord Shiva cherishes.