The sacred month of Sawan (Shravan) holds a special place in Hinduism, especially for devotees of Lord Shiva. The Mondays of this holy month, known as Sawan Somvar, are considered highly auspicious. Devotees observe fasts, perform pujas, and offer heartfelt prayers to seek the divine blessings of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.
To ensure a complete and fulfilling puja, it’s essential to prepare with all the right items. Below is a detailed Sawan Somvar Puja Samagri list, complete with the significance of each item.
Note: Puja items may slightly differ based on regional customs. It’s always a good idea to consult a local priest or elder for specific traditions.
Sawan Somvar Puja Samagri List
Samagri Significance Idol / Shiva Linga Central representation of Lord Shiva Ganga Jal Used in Jalabhishek (ritual bathing) Panchamrit Five-element sacred offering Belpatra Favorite leaf of Lord Shiva Bhasma Represents purity and detachment Fresh Flowers & Fruits Devotion, freshness, and gratitude Rudraksha, Bhaang, Dhatura Traditional Shiva offerings Sandalwood, Saffron, Itra Fragrance and sanctity Camphor, Incense, Oil Lamp Aarti and purification tools Vrat Katha Book Spiritual guidance for devotees
Essential Puja Samagri for Sawan Somvar
1. Idol or Image of Lord Shiva / Shiva Linga
A sacred representation of Lord Shiva in the form of an idol, image, or Shiva Linga is central to the puja.
2. Ganga Jal (Holy Water)
Used for Jalabhishek (ritual bathing) of the Shiva Linga. Considered the purest form of water in Hinduism.
3. Raw Milk (Kaccha Doodh)
A key element of Panchamrit, it symbolizes health and vitality when poured on the Shiva Linga.
4. Curd (Dahi)
Believed to bring calmness and serenity, it is also part of the Panchamrit mix.
5. Ghee (Clarified Butter)
Used in Panchamrit and for lighting the diya. Represents spiritual strength.
6. Honey (Shahad)
Sweetens speech and strengthens relationships. A symbolic gesture of divine communication.
7. Sugar (Shakkar)
A vital Panchamrit ingredient, sugar represents sweetness and prosperity.
Panchamrit – The Sacred Offering
- Raw Milk
- Curd
- Ghee
- Honey
- Sugar
This five-ingredient mix is used to bathe the Shiva Linga and represents purity, devotion, and divine blessings.
Sacred Offerings to Lord Shiva
8. Belpatra (Bel Leaves)
Offer in sets of three or more like Panchmukhi Belpatra. The trifoliate shape symbolizes Lord Shiva’s trinetra (three eyes).
9. Dhatura (Thorn Apple)
A powerful offering said to please Lord Shiva and remove life’s obstacles.
10. Bhaang
Used in small quantities, it is a traditional offering linked to Lord Shiva’s ascetic nature.
11. White Sandalwood (Safed Chandan)
Soothes the mind and body. Applied on the Linga as a cooling agent.
12. Akshat (Unbroken Rice)
Symbol of completeness and purity. Offered as part of the puja rituals.
13. Bhasma (Sacred Ash)
Represents detachment and purity—essential elements of Shiva’s character.
Decorative & Fragrant Elements
14. Fresh Flowers
Preferably white—jasmine, kewda, champa, or kaner. Avoid artificial or wilted flowers.
15. Coconut
Symbol of devotion and surrender. Offered whole as part of the puja.
16. Fresh Fruits
Fresh Fruits like bananas, apples, and pomegranates express gratitude and devotion.
17. Betel Leaves (Paan) and Betel Nut (Supari)
Signify respect and hospitality during the puja.
18. Cloves (Laung) and Cardamom (Elaichi)
Enhance fragrance and are a symbol of devotional aroma.
19. Saffron (Kesar)
A touch of saffron adds auspiciousness and is often added to Panchamrit.
Shiva-Specific Spiritual Elements
20. Rudraksha Beads
Highly sacred and associated with Lord Shiva. Can be offered or worn during mantra chanting.
21. Shami Patra (Shami Leaves)
Offering Shami leaves brings blessings and forgiveness of sins.
Ritual Enhancers
22. Incense Sticks (Agarbatti/Dhoop)
Used to purify the atmosphere and invoke divine presence.
23. Camphor (Kapoor)
Burned during aarti to signify the burning of ego and negativity.
24. Diya (Oil Lamp)
Lit with ghee or mustard oil, the diya represents light and divine energy.
Additional Auspicious Offerings
25. Black Sesame Seeds (Kala Til)
Used to ward off negative planetary effects and attract good fortune.
26. Sacred Oils (Sesame, Sandalwood, or Mustard Oil)
Used during Abhishek for cleansing and energizing the idol.
27. Panchmeva (Mixed Dry Fruits)
A mix of almonds, cashews, raisins, etc., offered as prasad.
Reading Material
28. Somvar Vrat Katha Book
This book is read during the puja to understand the story and spiritual benefits of observing the Sawan Somvar Vrat.
Final Thoughts
Observing Sawan Somvar Vrat and performing the puja with devotion, sincerity, and the right samagri can bring immense spiritual rewards. It is believed to fulfill wishes, remove obstacles, and invite divine blessings from Lord Shiva.
So, prepare your thali, gather the samagri, and chant “Om Namah Shivaya” with a pure heart this Sawan. Shiv Shambhu is listening!