Monday or Somavar is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is said that Lord Shiva is easily pleased. Therefore many people observe Upvaas on Monday. Those observing fast eat only once in that day. They will go to Lord Shiva shrines and conduct pujas, especially, Ardhanarishwara puja. The mantra ‘Om Namah Shivaya’ is chanted continuously. Siva devotees also read Shiva Purana. Unmarried women observe this Vrat to get good husbands. Others observe it for a happy and prosperous family life.

Upvaas, or fasting, in Hinduism is mainly observed for the fulfillment of a vow. Upvas is also referred as 'Vrats.' But 'Vrat' has a wider meaning and it is not just curtailed to the fasting observed for material or other gains. Each day in a week is dedicated to one or more of the gods. A particular deity is appeased on a particular day. Monday is usually dedicated to Lord Shiva. Fasting on Mondays is usually observed by unmarried women to get ideal husband.

There are numerous myths associated with a particular fast. The stories vary from region to region and from community to community.
Any Upvaas or Vrat is directly or indirectly connected with some sort of material comfort. This is a sweet lure used by ancient saints to attract a devotee to the concept of Brahman. The concept of Brahman in Sanatana Dharma is not easily digestible to many people. And they are least bothered about Brahman concept all they need is material comfort. Ancient wise men used this tendency among the common people to spread the awareness of Brahman.

Somavar Vrat begins from sunrise on Monday. Devotees observing the Vrat visit a Lord Shiva temple in the morning and evening. If this is not possible prayers are offered at home. White color dress is worn by those observing the fast. White flowers are also offered to the Shivling. A single meal is taken on the day after midday. Those observing partial fast take fruits or Sabudana Khichadi. In the evening a story related to Somavar Vrat is listened to or read by those observing the fast. Apart from white flowers, people also offer Bilva leaves or Bil patra while doing the puja. The mantra that is chanted is “Om Namah Shivaya” The fast ends on the next day morning after usual prayers and rituals.
When Amavasi, falls on Monday it is considered highly auspicious and the day is known as Somavati Amavas.

Mondays in Shravan month (July – August) in North India, Gujarat and Maharashtra is considered highly auspicious. Special pujas are offered to Lord Shiva on Mondays in temples and homes.

Mondays are auspicious in Kartik month (October – November) in Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka.
Mondays in Karthigai Masam (November – December is also auspicious in Tamil Nadu.

By Premji