Sawan Shivaratri Vrat Do’s and Don’ts: What devotees should eat, avoid and follow during the sacred fast

For devotees of Lord Shiva, Sawan Somwar Vrat is an important part of the holy month of Shravan. Sawan, also known as Shravan, began on July 30, 2026, and this year devotees will observe four Sawan Somwar fasts.

Today, August 10, 2026, is the second Sawan Somwar. Devotees can observe the fast with prayers, meditation, Shiva puja and sattvik food, depending on their family traditions and personal circumstances.

Here is a simple guide on how to observe Sawan Somwar Vrat 2026, including puja rituals, fasting rules, what to eat and how to break the fast.


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Sawan Somwar Vrat 2026 Dates

There are four Sawan Somwar fasts in 2026:

• First Sawan Somwar: August 3
• Second Sawan Somwar: August 10
• Third Sawan Somwar: August 17
• Fourth Sawan Somwar: August 24

Since today is August 10, devotees are observing the second Sawan Somwar Vrat.

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Step 1: Choose Your Sawan Somwar Fasting Method

There is no single fasting method followed by everyone. Some devotees observe a strict fast, while others have fruits, milk and other vrat-friendly foods. Some people eat one sattvik meal during the day.

Depending on family tradition, devotees may avoid grains, onion, garlic, non-vegetarian food and alcohol during the fast. Those who are new to fasting should avoid taking up an extremely restrictive vrat without considering their health and daily routine.

The focus of Sawan Somwar is devotion and self-discipline rather than putting unnecessary physical strain on the body.

Step 2: Wake Up Early And Take A Bath

Devotees traditionally begin Sawan Somwar by waking up early, taking a bath and wearing clean clothes. Many people prefer light-coloured clothes for Shiva puja.

Clean the puja area before beginning the day's prayers. Remove old flowers and keep the space neat and peaceful.

Step 3: Take A Simple Sankalp

Sit before an image or idol of Lord Shiva and take a simple sankalp, or devotional resolve, for the fast.

You can pray for spiritual strength, peace, good health or family well-being according to your personal beliefs. The sankalp does not need to be complicated. A sincere and manageable resolve is more important than making promises that are difficult to keep.

Step 4: Perform Jalabhishek To Shivling

One of the central rituals of Sawan Somwar puja is offering water to the Shivling. Devotees can slowly perform Jalabhishek while chanting "Om Namah Shivaya".

Those who can visit a Shiva temple may offer prayers there, while others can perform the ritual at home.

According to traditional practices, devotees may also offer items such as bilva leaves, milk, white flowers, sandalwood, fruits, honey, curd, ghee and akshat during Shiva puja.

Step 5: Chant Om Namah Shivaya

Devotees can chant "Om Namah Shivaya" during the fast. Many people recite the mantra 108 times as part of their prayers.

The Mahamrityunjaya Mantra is another important Shiva mantra that devotees may recite according to their tradition.

Beyond the number of repetitions, the purpose is to spend time in prayer, reflection and devotion.

Step 6: Follow Sawan Somwar Vrat Food Rules

Those observing a food-based fast can choose simple vrat-friendly foods. Common options include:

• Fruits
• Milk and curd
• Makhana
• Sabudana
• Coconut water
• Nuts
• Other foods permitted by one's family tradition

Some devotees have a single sattvik meal while others follow a more restrictive fast.

If you are fasting, avoid overeating when you eventually eat. A simple and balanced meal is generally easier on the stomach than immediately having a very heavy meal.

Step 7: Practise Self-Control During Sawan Somwar

Sawan Somwar Vrat is not only about food. Devotees also traditionally focus on self-restraint and positive behaviour.

Try to avoid unnecessary anger, arguments, gossip, harsh speech and disrespect towards others. Spend some quiet time praying, listening to bhajans, reading the Shiva Chalisa or simply reflecting.

The idea is to make the day about devotion, calmness and discipline rather than treating the vrat only as a dietary restriction.

Step 8: How To Break Sawan Somwar Vrat

The fast can be broken according to your family tradition and personal practice. Many devotees perform an evening Shiva puja before having their meal.

After offering prayers and expressing gratitude, begin with light food. Avoid immediately consuming very spicy, oily or excessively heavy dishes after a long fast.

For people who have medical conditions, take medication, are pregnant, elderly or otherwise need regular meals, fasting practices should be adapted appropriately rather than followed at the expense of health.

Sawan Somwar 2026 Is About Devotion And Discipline

With August 10 marking the second Sawan Somwar of 2026, devotees can observe the day through Shiva puja, Jalabhishek, mantra chanting, meditation and a fasting routine suited to their circumstances.

Whether one observes a strict vrat or a simple sattvik fast, the essence of Sawan Somwar lies in devotion, self-discipline, prayer and mindfulness. The remaining Sawan Somwars in 2026 will fall on August 17 and August 24.


Disclaimer: This article is based on Hindu religious beliefs, traditions and practices. Fasting rituals, puja methods and customs may vary across families, regions and communities.