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The holy month of Saavan dedicated to Mahadev, the God of Gods, has started and this time the first Monday of Saavan is falling on 2nd August. Shiva devotees have started preparations to please Lord Bholenath. Unmarried girls and married women especially observe fast on Sawan Somwar and Solah Somwar, so that they can get the blessings of their desired groom or unbroken good fortune. However, a big dilemma often faced by women and girls is that if menstruation (periods) come during the fast, whether they should keep the fast or not and what the rules of worship say. Let us know its correct and accurate method according to theology and astrological texts.
Can Sawan Monday fast be observed during periods?
According to Sanatan Dharma and astrological experts, if a woman or girl has taken a resolution on Sawan Somwar or Solah Somwar, then the fast should not be left midway even when the periods (menopause/menstruation) start. Vrat does not only mean physical worship but also fasting of mind and body. According to religious scriptures, the rule of fasting can be continued even during days of physical impurity, because the resolution of fasting is related to the mind. Therefore, women should continue their fast without any hesitation and follow the eating rules.
Special rules related to worship and touch during menstruation
Even if the fast is observed, it is necessary to follow some restrictions in the worship and methods of worshiping Lord Shiva. During periods, women are prohibited from going to the sanctum sanctorum of the temple, touching the Shivalinga, offering water or offering Belpatra. This does not mean at all that you cannot worship Lord Shiva. You can mentally chant the five syllable mantra of Lord Shiva ‘Om Namah Shivay’ while sitting at a distance or from some holy corner of the house. Apart from this, you can also listen to the story of Sawan Monday in your mind or with the help of someone else.
Option of worship and relaxation during fast
If you are fasting for sixteen Mondays and for some reason are unable to perform puja or Udyapan on that particular Monday, then there is no need to panic. A clear solution for this has been given in the scriptures. You can get some other family member (like husband, mother or brother) to take a pledge in your favor and offer water and milk on Shivalinga. To get the full results of fasting, feelings and devotion matter most. Lord Shiva sees the emotions of the devotees, hence worshiping Shiva mentally during these days of impurity is considered completely fruitful.