Spiritual Insight • Hindu Tradition
"Understand the significance of fasting on Mondays (Somvar Vrat) — a practice dedicated to Lord Shiva for blessings, marriage, and prosperity."
Monday fasting (Somvar Vrat) is one of the most common weekly fasts in Hinduism. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Millions of devotees — especially women seeking a good husband or married women praying for their husband's longevity — observe this fast every Monday. In some traditions, the fast is observed for 16 consecutive Mondays (Solah Somvar).
People fast on Monday because: (1) Monday is ruled by the Moon (Chandra/Soma) — the moon represents the mind. Fasting on Monday calms the mind, reduces stress, and balances emotions, (2) It is dedicated to Lord Shiva — who wears the crescent moon on his head. Monday is considered Shiva's day, (3) Unmarried women fast for a husband like Lord Shiva — the ideal husband (perfect yogi, devoted to his wife), (4) Married women fast for their husband's long life and family prosperity, (5) The Somvar Vrat is often done for 16 consecutive Mondays — 16 represents the 16 phases (kalas) of the full moon, (6) It helps overcome Chandra dosha (afflictions caused by the moon in the birth chart) — such as mental instability, anxiety, or restlessness.
One meal without grains/onion/garlic — fruits, milk, curd, nuts, sabudana, kuttu atta, potatoes, sweet potatoes. Some do nirjala (no water) or only fruits.
Solah Somvar — 16 consecutive Mondays — is the complete vow for major wishes (marriage, child, job). For general wellbeing, Monday fasting for life is recommended.
Yes, men also fast on Monday for Shiva's blessings, mental peace, overcoming Chandra dosha, and spiritual growth.
Monday ruled by Moon (Chandra) — calms the mind • Dedicated to Lord Shiva (wears crescent moon)
Ask Pandit Shivananda for deeper spiritual guidance and clarification.