The auspicious Hindu month Sawan has begun on July 16 :-

The auspicious Hindu month, Sawan also known as Shravan month or Shravana masam, has begun on July 16.

Shiva is 'shakti' or power, Known by many names - Mahadeva, Mahayogi, Pashupati.

Mahadeva is worshipped by millions of devotees around the world but there are two most auspicious occasions when worshiping lord Shiva is considered most fruitful. First is the eve of 'Shivaratri'. he other assured time to please lord Shiva is the Shravana Masam or Shravan month also known as Sawan mahina, a very auspicious Hindu month. Each Monday of this month, known as Shravan Somvar, is a special day in Shiva temples where the dharanatra hangs over the linga or the idol to bathe it with holy water, day and night. Devotees pile the linga high with Bel leaves and flowers and fast till sunset.

The surroundings can be seen full of greenery during this month. It seems as if a new life has been gives to nature. A close relationships between humans and nature has been described in the Vedas. According to Vedas, Brahmanas offer prayers and read Vedas during rains. According to religious texts, poison came out of the sea during the battle between the Devas and the Demons. Lord Shiva came forward and drank this poison to save mankind. Lord Shiva did this during the Sawan month. His body temperature increased substantially. All Devi-Devas tried to lower his body temperature but nothing helped. Lord Shiva then wore the Moon on his head which lowered his temperature.

It is also believed that Lord Indra wanted Lord Shiva’s body temperature to decreases and hence, it rained heavily. This calmed down Lord Shiva and since then the Sawan month is celebrated to please Lord Shiva. Water is poured on Lord Shiva during the whole Sawan month, especially on Mondays.