Shrawan Mondays: Women throng Shivalayas (In photos)
KATHMANDU, July 23: Mondays of Nepali month of Shrawan are considered holy and taken as having great religious significance. It is believed that one can win the special grace of Lord Shiva by fasting during this holy month.
During the month, devotees, especially fast and visit Shiva temples near them to offer puja.
Unmarried girls fast to get a good husband while married women fast for the long life of their husband and family. It is believed that by worshipping Shivaling on Mondays of this month, one can win Lord Shiva’s special grace.
Legend has it that the daughter of Daksh had sacrificed her life and was reborn as Parvati in the home of Himalaya King. Parvati wanted to marry Lord Shiva. That is the reason why she performed penance during Shrawan month. Lord Shiva was pleased with the devotion of Parvati and he had fulfilled her wish.
Shrawan is also the month of greenery and love. Married women wear green, red and yellow bangles in this month as a symbol of married life and being close to nature.
Not just married women but also unmarried girls are found clad in green and yellow bangles these days.
Here are some photos of devotees visiting Pashupatinath temple on the first Monday of Shrawan.
Photo: Mukunda Kalikote/Reporters Club Nepal