Powerful Day: First Sawan Somvar & Ganesha Sankashti Coincide - Puja Timings, Rituals, and What to Avoid Revealed

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): Today, July 14, marks the first Monday of the holy month of Sawan, coinciding with Gajanana Sankashti Chaturthi — a rare and spiritually powerful combination. According to Hindu beliefs, observing a fast and performing proper rituals on this day pleases Lord Shiva and brings blessings of peace, health, and prosperity.

Several rare yogas like Ayushman and Saubhagya, along with Dhanishta and Shatabhisha nakshatras, are also forming today, making it an especially auspicious occasion. Devotees are advised to complete Shiv puja before 7:16 AM to avoid Rahukaal, with ideal windows for worship including early morning and evening muhurats.

Worship should include abhishek with Gangajal or Panchamrit, offerings like belpatra, bhang, white sweets, black sesame, and chanting of “Om Namah Shivaya” or the Mahamrityunjaya mantra. During abhishek, one must avoid using haldi, tulsi, roli, ketaki flowers, or water from a conch shell.

Bhog items like makhana, almond kheer, milk-based sweets, and ber fruits are traditionally offered. This day is seen as a powerful opportunity for removing planetary obstacles and receiving divine grace through dedicated Shiva worship.