Sawan Somwar: Sometimes 4 and sometimes 5 Mondays, why does the number of Mondays keep changing in the months of Sawan?

Sawan 2026: The month of Shravan i.e. Sawan is considered best for worshiping Lord Shiva. For Shiva devotees, this entire month is no less than a festival. Every year people wait for the arrival of this holy month, so that they can indulge in the devotion of Mahadev. Fast on Monday has special significance in the month of Sawan. It is believed that Jalabhishek and fasting done with full devotion on this day removes all the troubles of life. But why is the number of Mondays not the same in the month of Saavan every year? Some years there are four Mondays in Saavan, while some years their number becomes five. Let us understand on the basis of almanac and astronomical calculations what is the scientific and spiritual reason behind this.

Why does the number of Mondays keep changing?

The increase or decrease in the number of Mondays in the month of Saavan is directly related to the difference between our traditional calendar and the English calendar. To understand this, it is important to know the calculations based on the movement of the Sun and the Moon.

Difference between solar and lunar calendars

Our Hindu calendar is based on the movement of the Moon, which is called lunar month. On the other hand, the English or Gregorian calendar is based on the movement of the Sun. A lunar month averages 29.5 days, while a month in the English calendar lasts 30 or 31 days. This difference of days affects the days of Sawan and the days to come.

occurrence and progress of dates

In the Hindu calendar, dates are determined by the waxing and waning phases of the Moon. Many times a date is less than 24 hours, due to which it gets broken or shortened. If the dates in the month of Saavan are short and the entire month is limited to only 29 or 30 days, then only 4 Mondays are available during that period. On the contrary, when the dates do not decay and the month stretches for full 30 or 31 days, then according to the calendar there is a coincidence of 5 Mondays in that particular year.

effect of excess month

In some years the situation changes completely, which we call Adhimas or Malmas. When Adhimaas occurs in the month of Saavan itself, then instead of 30 days, the month of Saavan becomes about two months i.e. 59 to 60 days. In such a rare coincidence, the number of Mondays increases to 8, as was seen some time ago.

Sawan Monday 2026 dates

• First Sawan Monday 3 August 2026
• Second Sawan Monday 10 August 2026
• Third Sawan Monday 17 August 2026
• Fourth Sawan Monday 24 August 2026

Religious significance of Sawan Monday fast

According to the scriptures, every day of Sawan is auspicious, but Monday is the most auspicious day. Shiva It is considered to be the day of. Keeping fast on Monday in this month strengthens the position of the Moon in the horoscope and provides mental peace. Unmarried girls observe this fast mainly to wish for a good groom and married women observe this fast for a happy married life. Irrespective of the calculation of the Panchang and whether Monday is 4 or 5, every day of worship of Mahadev is equally beneficial for Shiva devotees.

Also read: Hindu Death Rituals: Why are Ganga water and Tulsi leaves put in the mouth just before death, it is mentioned in Guru Purana.

Disclaimer: The information given in this news is based on religious beliefs and general information. TV9 Bharatvarsha does not confirm this.