The month of Sawan is dedicated to Lord Shiva, and today marks the second day of this auspicious period. Mondays are particularly special in Sawan, but Tuesdays hold equal significance due to the observance of the Mangala Gauri Vrat. This fast is dedicated to Goddess Parvati and is observed by women who wish for unbroken marital bliss and the happiness of their families.

Mangala Gauri Vrat Observance

Today, 23rd July, marks the first Mangala Gauri Vrat of the Sawan month. This year, there will be a total of four Mangala Gauri Vrats. On this day, special prayers are offered to Goddess Parvati, and married women observe this fast to attain unbroken good fortune. Unmarried girls also observe this fast to wish for a good groom.

Dates of Mangala Gauri Vrat

• 23rd July: First Mangala Gauri Vrat
• 30th July: Second Mangala Gauri Vrat
• 6th August: Third Mangala Gauri Vrat
• 13th August: Fourth Mangala Gauri Vrat

Importance of Mangala Gauri Vrat

The Mangala Gauri Vrat is observed by married women to ensure happiness, peace, and prosperity in their families. It is believed that this fast sweetens the relationship between husband and wife and brings the joy of children. Unmarried girls facing obstacles in marriage or those with Manglik Dosha in their horoscopes also keep this fast to overcome such challenges.

Method of Fasting for Mangala Gauri

On the day of Mangala Gauri Vrat, devotees wake up early and take a vow to fast after bathing. They visit the temple of Lord Shiva and offer water to the Shivling. A ghee lamp is lit in front of Mata Gauri, and both husband and wife offer clothes to Lord Shiva and makeup items to Mata Gauri, ensuring to offer all sixteen makeup items to Mata Parvati. Offerings include akshat, flowers, fruits, sweets, incense, lamps, and naivedya. The couple circumambulates Mata Parvati and Lord Shiva, recites the Mangala Gauri Vrat Katha, and performs the aarti of Mata Parvati. Fruits can be consumed in the evening.

List of Puja Materials

• Chowki for Puja
• White and red cloth for the place of worship
• Four-sided lamp made of flour, urn, incense sticks, camphor, wheat, and rice
• Milk, Panchamrit, and clean water for Abhishek
• Kumkum, rice, abeera, turmeric
• Sixteen types of flowers, garlands, fruits, flour balls, and leaves

The Mangala Gauri Vrat is an auspicious and fruitful fast that holds great importance for devotees. It brings blessings, prosperity, and happiness, reinforcing the spiritual connection with Goddess Parvati and Lord Shiva during the holy month of Sawan.