Important Things for the First Saturday of Sawan 2024

Sawan, also known as Shravan, is a highly auspicious month in the Hindu calendar, dedicated to Lord Shiva. This year, Sawan 2024 brings a series of important rituals, fasts, and observances that devotees must follow to seek the blessings of the divine. The first Saturday of Sawan holds special significance as it is dedicated to Shani Dev, the deity who governs the planet Saturn. Observing the proper rituals and practices on this day can bring immense benefits and help in mitigating the adverse effects of Shani Dosha. Here’s a comprehensive guide on what to do on the first Saturday of Sawan 2024.

Significance of Sawan 2024

The month of Sawan is considered the holiest month for worshipping Lord Shiva. Devotees observe fasts, perform Abhishekam (ritualistic bathing of Shiva Lingam), and chant mantras to please the deity. It is believed that during this month, Lord Shiva showers his devotees with blessings, removes their sins, and fulfills their desires. The Saturdays in Sawan are particularly important for those who seek the blessings of Shani Dev.

Importance of the First Saturday of Sawan 2024

The first Saturday of Sawan is crucial for devotees as it sets the tone for the rest of the month. This day is specifically dedicated to Shani Dev, who is believed to influence the fortunes of individuals based on their past karmas. Worshipping Shani Dev on this day can help alleviate the negative effects of Shani Dosha, bring peace, prosperity, and ward off any impending troubles.

Rituals and Practices

1. Early Morning Bath and Preparation: Start the day with a holy bath early in the morning. It is recommended to take a dip in a river or lake, but if that’s not possible, a regular bath with a few drops of Ganga Jal (holy water from the Ganges) can suffice. Wear clean and preferably white or saffron-colored clothes after the bath.
2. Visit a Shiva Temple: After the bath, visit a Shiva temple. Offer milk, honey, water, and bilva leaves to the Shiva Lingam. Chant “Om Namah Shivaya” while performing the Abhishekam. This ritual is believed to purify the soul and bring the blessings of Lord Shiva.
3. Shani Dev Puja: Perform a special puja for Shani Dev. Offer black sesame seeds, black clothes, mustard oil, and blue flowers to the deity. Light a mustard oil lamp and recite Shani Mantras such as “Om Sham Shanaishcharaya Namah” to appease Shani Dev and seek his blessings.
4. Observing Fast: Fasting on the first Saturday of Sawan is considered highly beneficial. Devotees can opt for a full-day fast or consume only fruits and milk. The fast should be observed with sincerity and devotion, and breaking the fast should be done after sunset.
5. Feeding the Needy: Charity is an essential aspect of worship during Sawan. Feeding the needy and offering donations to the poor on this day can bring divine blessings and reduce the malefic effects of Shani Dev. Donate food, clothes, and money to those in need.
6. Chanting Mantras: Recite the following mantras to invoke the blessings of Shani Dev:
   • Shani Mantra: “Om Sham Shanaishcharaya Namah”
   • Shani Gayatri Mantra: “Om Sanaischaraya Vidmahe Chhaya Putraya Dheemahi Tanno Manda Prachodayat”
7. Offering Prayers: Offer prayers with complete devotion. Sit in front of the idol or picture of Shani Dev and meditate. Seek forgiveness for past misdeeds and pray for protection, prosperity, and peace.
8. Avoiding Negative Actions: On this auspicious day, avoid engaging in negative actions or thoughts. Refrain from lying, cheating, or harming others. Maintaining a positive and pure mindset is crucial for receiving divine blessings.
9. Special Shani Remedies:
   • Donate black sesame seeds, mustard oil, and iron to appease Shani Dev.
   • Wear a black or blue sapphire gemstone, after consulting with an astrologer, to mitigate the effects of Shani Dosha.
   • Place a piece of iron or steel under your bed to reduce the malefic effects of Shani.
10. Performing Havan: Conduct a havan (sacred fire ritual) dedicated to Shani Dev. Offer ghee, black sesame seeds, and other sacred items into the fire while chanting Shani Mantras. This ritual purifies the surroundings and attracts positive energy.

Benefits of Observing the First Saturday of Sawan

• Mitigates Shani Dosha: Worshipping Shani Dev on this day helps in reducing the malefic effects of Shani Dosha. It brings relief from financial troubles, health issues, and other adversities caused by the influence of Saturn.
• Brings Peace and Prosperity: Performing the rituals with dedication and devotion attracts peace, prosperity, and happiness into one’s life. It helps in overcoming obstacles and achieving success in endeavors.
• Enhances Spiritual Growth: Observing the rituals and fasting on this day aids in spiritual growth and purification of the soul. It strengthens the bond between the devotee and the divine.
• Protects from Negative Energies: The special pujas and havan conducted on this day create a protective shield around the devotees, warding off negative energies and evil influences.
• Fulfillment of Desires: Worshipping Lord Shiva and Shani Dev during Sawan is believed to fulfill the desires of the devotees. It brings positive changes and new opportunities in life.