Latest news with #Shravana
The Hindu
6 hours ago
- The Hindu
For hill-loving Bengal travellers, Uttarakhand is the flavour of the season
This monsoon, seasoned travellers from Bengal, especially those who love the hills but are wary of Kashmir and bored of Darjeeling, are headed to Uttarakhand to mix sightseeing with spiritualism. They feel that the rainy reason, apart from its risks, also has its share of rewards in what they like to call Devbhoomi, a common sobriquet for Uttarakhand, and that this is possibly the best time of the year to be there because this is when more religious events are held there. 'Monsoon takes up most of the pilgrimage season in Uttarakhand because the month of Shravana is when devotees of Lord Shiva visit Kedarnath along with other temples such as Tunganath, Madhmaheshwar, Rudranath, Kalpeshwar. The State has witnessed massive destruction due to natural disasters during peak monsoon and yet pilgrims and tourists continue going there. Also, the Valley of Flowers is a popular destination for trekkers during this time of the year. I am going there in August,' said lyricist Swadesh Misra, who is also an advocate at the Calcutta High Court. Dr. Anjan Kumar Kundu, professor of Radio Physics and Electronics at the University of Calcutta, is also of the opinion that while conventional wisdom warns against Himalayan treks during the monsoon — slippery trails, landslides, and fickle weather being key concerns — the Valley of Flowers defies the narrative. 'In fact, monsoon is the only time this UNESCO World Heritage Site is accessible, as it's buried under snow for much of the year. Nestled in Chamoli district and established as a national park in 1982, the Valley of Flowers transforms into a riot of colours as rain awakens the rare array of Himalayan flora. The highlight of the trek is the ascent to Hemkund Sahib, a sacred lake and Gurudwara set amidst a surreal landscape,' said Dr. Kundu, who is also headed there in August. Travel enthusiast and State Government employee Maitrayee Paul is also eagerly looking forward to the Valley of Flowers when she goes there next month. 'Monsoon breathes a different kind of life into Himalayan foothills — the hills are lush, the waterfalls grow full-bodied, and unknown trails reveal scenic wonders amidst drizzles. Uttarakhand, being a traveller's paradise all through the year, offers something far more intimate during the rains — a landscape drenched in green, mountains wrapped in mist, and rivers swollen with stories. While parents and well-wishers urge caution, I look forward to a certain raw, untamed beauty in the mountains during this time. Also, it's a much-needed break, to slow down. Last year it was eastern Himalayas, but this time I thought to direct the focus on Devbhoomi,' Ms. Paul said. Kaushiki Sengupta, a senior data analyst with HSBC India, was initially planning Kashmir as her destination for 2025 but then Pahalgam happened. Uttarakhand, to her, seemed to be the next best thing. 'Kashmir remains iconic but we wanted a place that was equally captivating and yet more dependable logistically. Uttarakhand, with its pristine landscapes and welcoming atmosphere, felt like the perfect alternative, offering the same grandeur of the Himalayas with fewer concerns,' said Ms. Sengupta who, like the others, is eagerly waiting for her trip to the Valley of Flowers and the sights and sites offered by the trek.
Time of India
2 days ago
- General
- Time of India
Sawan Shivratri 2025: Date, significance, puja timings, rituals & powerful mantras to chant
Sawan Shivratri, also known as Masik Shivratri or Monthly Shivratri, holds immense spiritual importance for devotees of Lord Shiva. Falling in the sacred month of Shravana (Sawan), this festival is observed with great devotion across India. It is a time when devotees seek the blessings of Mahadev through fasting, prayer, and special rituals. Sawan Shivratri 2025: Date & timings In 2025, Sawan Shivratri will be observed on Wednesday, July 23. However, key rituals and night-long worship continue into the early hours of July 24, marking it as a spiritually charged event. Explore courses from Top Institutes in Select a Course Category Management Cybersecurity others CXO MBA Technology Project Management Operations Management Data Science Healthcare Finance Others Data Science Product Management MCA healthcare Leadership Public Policy Digital Marketing Data Analytics PGDM Degree Artificial Intelligence Design Thinking Skills you'll gain: Duration: 10 Months IIM Kozhikode CERT-IIMK GMPBE India Starts on undefined Get Details Skills you'll gain: Duration: 11 Months IIM Kozhikode CERT-IIMK General Management Programme India Starts on undefined Get Details Skills you'll gain: Duration: 9 Months IIM Calcutta CERT-IIMC APSPM India Starts on undefined Get Details Sawan Shivratri Important Timings Event Date & Time Sawan Shivratri 2025 Wednesday, July 23, 2025 Chaturdashi Tithi Begins 4:39 AM on July 23, 2025 Chaturdashi Tithi Ends 2:28 AM on July 24, 2025 Shivratri Parana Time 5:38 AM on July 24, 2025 by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Top 15 Most Beautiful Women in the World Undo Shivratri Night Puja Timings (Four Prahars) Prahar Timing First Prahar 07:17 PM to 09:53 PM (July 23) Second Prahar 09:53 PM to 12:28 AM (July 24) Third Prahar 12:28 AM to 03:03 AM (July 24) Fourth Prahar 03:03 AM to 05:38 AM (July 24) Why Sawan Shivratri is so significant Among the 12 Shivratris observed annually, the one that falls in the month of Shravana is especially revered. While Maha Shivratri, celebrated in Phalguna (February–March), is the most widely recognized, Sawan Shivratri is considered highly potent for spiritual awakening, inner peace, and divine connection. This is due to the spiritual energy associated with the Sawan month, which is devoted entirely to Lord Shiva. Key Rituals and Traditions of Sawan Shivratri 2025 1. Fasting (vrat) Live Events Devotees undertake a fast that begins at sunrise and ends the following morning after the proper Parana time. Some observe a nirjala vrat (without water or food), while others may consume only fruits or milk. 2. Jalabhishek (offering water to Shiva) A central ritual is Jalabhishek, where devotees pour Gangajal, milk, water, honey, and other sacred items on the Shiva Lingam, chanting mantras for blessings, forgiveness, and fulfillment of wishes. 3. Night Vigil (jagran) As 'Shivratri' means the night of Shiva, devotees remain awake all night, singing bhajans, meditating, and performing pujas in four segments known as Prahars. This vigil is a mark of unwavering devotion and spiritual alertness. 4. Mantra chanting Chanting Lord Shiva's mantras is a powerful practice on this night. Some of the most revered mantras include: Shiva Moola Mantra: 'Om Namah Shivaya' Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra: 'Om Tryambakam Yajamahe Sugandhim Pushti-Vardhanam, Urvarukamiva Bandhanan Mrityor Mukshiya Maamritat' These mantras are believed to purify the mind, heal the body, and invoke Shiva's protection. 5. Temple visits Visiting prominent Shiva temples such as Kashi Vishwanath, Mahakaleshwar, or local shrines is an essential part of the celebration. Devotees offer Bael leaves, flowers, fruits, and incense to express reverence and gratitude. 6. Meditation and spiritual practice Many take time to engage in meditation (Dhyan) and inward reflection. This night is thought to hold the power for deep spiritual transformation and connection with one's higher self through devotion to Lord Shiva. Sawan Shivratri 2025 is not just a religious occasion—it's a moment for self-discipline, devotion, and divine communion. Observing this sacred night with sincerity can bring peace, healing, and spiritual growth to every seeker. Whether you fast, chant, meditate, or simply offer prayers, it is a night to embrace the infinite energy of Lord Shiva.
The Hindu
4 days ago
- Politics
- The Hindu
Right-wing group storms Ghaziabad eateries over sale of meat during Sawan
Members of the right-wing Hindu Raksha Dal on Thursday (July 17, 2025) stormed a KFC outlet in Ghaziabad, demanding a ban on the sale of non-vegetarian food during the Hindu month of Sawan. A similar protest was staged outside a neighbouring outlet of local eatery chain Nazir, leading to the temporary closure of both establishments. Visuals of the incident circulated widely on social media showed members of the outfit carrying saffron flags and chanting slogans such as 'Jai Shri Ram' and 'Har Har Mahadev', while forcibly pulling down the shutter of the KFC outlet. In the video, the group is seen entering the restaurant, confronting staff, and demanding that operations be stopped. 'All of these products should be banned immediately, we will not tolerate this in Sawan,' a protester is heard shouting. Also read:Why should a vegetarian order from non-veg serving eatery if it hurts sentiments? Consumer panel says Opposition parties in Uttar Pradesh criticised the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) over the incident, holding it responsible for what they termed a deterioration in law and order. 'Such actions are a violation of the fundamental rights of citizens. When there is no ban, how can individuals storm a food chain and force it to shut down? It is a design to create disorder in society through groups that have become mainstream after the BJP assumed power. Holy occasions are being used to fuel tension on communal lines,' Shahnawaz Alam, national secretary, Congress, said. VIDEO | Abhishek Srivastava, Assistant Commissioner of Police, Indirapuram, says, "A few youths created ruckus demanding a food outlet to close. Upon receiving the information, the police reached the spot immediately and removed them. Normal operation at the outlet was ensured. A… — Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) July 18, 2025 The Samajwadi Party also condemned the protest. 'If the BJP or right-wing groups want a ban on meat sales, they should ask the government to close slaughterhouses and prohibit the sale of meat across India for one month during Sawan. Half of the slaughterhouses are run by BJP-linked people. Such unruly action in closing a food chain highlights a failure of governance,' party spokesperson Sunil Singh Yadav 'Sajan' said. The incident also triggered debate on social media, with many users criticising the actions of the protestors. Sawan, also known as Shravana, is considered a holy month in the Hindu calendar, particularly by devotees of Lord Shiva. Many observe fasts and refrain from consuming meat, alcohol, and even onion and garlic during this period. The Kanwar Yatra, a major pilgrimage, is also undertaken during this time.
New Indian Express
5 days ago
- New Indian Express
Odisha: STA warns against fake RTO job ads
BHUBANESWAR: The State Transport Authority (STA) on Thursday issued an advisory related to fake advertisements of various jobs in the regional transport offices (RTOs). The STA said it has come to its notice that fake advertisements are being posted on social media and some websites regarding jobs in various posts in the RTOs. Many innocent job-seekers are getting cheated through this scam for which citizens are advised not to believe in such advertisements. 'Any genuine advertisement regarding jobs is published only through the official process of the state government, said the STA, advising citizens to not click the links of such advertisements on WhatsApp. In another development, STA advised the kanwariyas (devotees of Lord Shiva) visiting different temples across the state during Shravana month to walk carefully on the roads to avoid any accident.
Time of India
7 days ago
- General
- Time of India
Sawan Shivratri 2025 date: Is Shivratri celebrated on July 23 or 24? Know exact date, time, mantras & more
Sawan Shivratri 2025: Sawan Shivratri, also known as Masa Shivaratri or Masik Shivaratri, is a deeply spiritual and religious Hindu festival. It falls in the holy month of Shravana, also called Sawan, which is considered highly sacred by devotees of Lord Shiva. On this day, people across India fast, visit temples, and offer Jal (water) to the Shiva Lingam to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva. But is Sawan Shivratri 2025 on July 23 or 24 (Sawan Shivratri Kab hai?)? Let's take a look at the correct date, timings, and important rituals of this auspicious festival. Sawan Shivratri 2025: Date and Tithi Timings In 2025, Sawan Shivratri will be celebrated on Wednesday, July 23. However, some key rituals extend till the early hours of July 24. Sawan Shivratri Important Timings: Shivratri Night Puja Timings (Four Prahars): Why is Sawan Shivratri So Important? Among the 12 Shivratris that fall every year, Sawan Shivratri is considered highly important due to its connection with the holy month of Shravana (Sawan). While Maha Shivratri in Phalguna month (February/March) is the most widely known, the Sawan Shivratri is equally powerful for those seeking spiritual awakening and divine blessings. This day is believed to mark the union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, and is celebrated with great devotion across India. Sawan Shivratri 2025: Rituals and Traditions 1. Fasting (Vrat) Devotees observe a strict fast starting from sunrise and break it the next morning after the Parana time. Some people follow a nirjala vrat (without food or water), while others consume fruits or milk. 2. Offering Jal to Shivling (Jalabhishek) A key ritual is Jalabhishekam, where devotees offer Gangajal, milk, honey, and water to the Shiva Lingam while chanting mantras. 3. Night Vigil (Jagran) As the name suggests, Shiv + Ratri means the night of Lord Shiva. Devotees stay awake the whole night, singing bhajans, offering prayers, and performing Puja during the four Prahars of the night. 4. Mantra Chanting Chanting sacred Shiva Mantras is believed to purify the mind and attract divine energy. Some powerful mantras include: Shiva Moola Mantra Om Namah Shivaya Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra Om Tryambakam Yajamahe Sugandhim Pushti-Vardhanam Urvarukamiva Bandhanan Mrityormukshiya Mamritat॥ Rudra Gayatri Mantra Om Tatpurushaya Vidmahe Mahadevaya Dhimahi Tanno Rudrah Prachodayat॥ Shiva Gayatri Mantra Om Mahadevaya Vidmahe Rudramurtaye Dhimahi Tannah Shivah Prachodayat॥ Mrityunjaya Mahadeva Mantra Om Mrityunjaya Mahadeva Trahi Mam Sharanagatam। Janma-Mrityu-Jara-Vyadhipidaitam Karma-Bandhanaih॥ Dakshinamurti Shiva Mantra Om Namo Bhagawate Dakshinamurtaye। Mahyam Medham Prajnam Prayachchha Swaha॥ Nilakantha Mahadeva Mantra Om Namo Nilakanthaya। 5. Temple Visits Visiting temples like Kashi Vishwanath, Mahakaleshwar, or any nearby Shiva temple is an important part of the ritual. Many people offer Bael leaves, flowers, and fruits to express gratitude. 6. Meditation and Spiritual Practice Devotees also engage in meditation and dhyan (focus) to connect deeply with Lord Shiva's divine presence. This night is considered powerful for spiritual transformation. Sawan Shivratri and the Kanwar Yatra Connection In North India, the Kanwar Yatra is a significant part of Sawan month celebrations. Thousands of Kanwariyas (devotees of Lord Shiva) carry holy Ganga water from places like Haridwar and pour it on the Shiva Lingam during Sawan Shivratri. This act is considered highly auspicious and spiritually rewarding. Where is Sawan Shivratri Celebrated Widely? In North India: States like Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Bihar, Rajasthan, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, and Madhya Pradesh see huge participation during Sawan Shivratri. Devotees visit temples, take part in processions, and engage in community worship. Major temples like Kashi Vishwanath in Varanasi, Baba Baidyanath Dham in Jharkhand, and Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga in Ujjain hold grand celebrations on this day. In South India: Although the month is known as Ashadha in the Amavasyant calendar, the essence of worship remains the same. People observe Ashadha Shivratri, perform puja at home and in temples, and chant mantras to honour Lord Shiva. Sawan Shivratri is not just a festival but a night full of divine energy, self-discipline, and devotion. Whether you fast, chant mantras, visit temples, or stay awake in spiritual reflection, this day is an opportunity to receive the blessings of Lord Shiva. Mark your calendar for 23rd July 2025 and take part in this sacred celebration of faith, rituals, and devotion during the Sawan month. Sawan Shivratri 2025 FAQs: Q. When is Sawan Shivratri 2025? Sawan Shivratri will be celebrated on Wednesday, July 23. Q. What is the difference between Maha Shivratri and Sawan Shivratri? Both Mahashivratri and Sawan Shivratri are dedicated to Lord Shiva, but they differ in timing and importance. Sawan Shivratri, celebrated during the month of Shravana, is considered very auspicious for Shiva devotees. On the other hand, Mahashivratri symbolises the divine union of Shiva and Shakti, representing cosmic balance. Q. What are the 2025 start and end dates? In 2025, Sawan starts on July 11 and concludes on August 9. Q. How many Jyotirlingas in India? There are 12 Jyotirlingas in India, including Somnath in Gujarat, Mallikarjuna in Andhra Pradesh, Mahakaleshwar in Madhya Pradesh, Omkareshwar in Madhya Pradesh, Kedarnath in Uttarakhand, Bhimashankar in Maharashtra, Kashi Vishwanath in Uttar Pradesh, Trimbakeshwar in Maharashtra, Vaidyanath in Jharkhand, Nageshwar in Gujarat, Rameshwaram in Tamil Nadu, and Grishneshwar in Maharashtra. (Note: Dates/timings may be subject to change; details mentioned here are as per the information available.) For more informative articles on historical and upcoming events from around the world, please visit Indiatimes Events.
