Somavara Vrata 2026: Devotees Prepare for Sacred Monday Fast as February 23 Date Approaches
Just a week from today, on Monday, February 23, 2026, lakhs of Shiva devotees will observe Somavara Vrata 2026 – the powerful Monday fasting dedicated to Lord Shiva. With the festival season gaining momentum, temples are already seeing a steady rise in footfall as people gear up for this auspicious vrata.
The parna time (breaking the fast) is scheduled for February 24, 2026, at 6:56 AM (Ujjain time). This simple yet deeply spiritual fast is believed to bring peace, prosperity, and the fulfillment of heartfelt wishes.
What is Somavara Vrata?
Somavara Vrata, also known as Monday fasting, is observed in the name of Lord Someshvara – Shiva adorned with the crescent moon. The word “Somvar” comes from “Soma,” the Moon God, whom Lord Shiva carries on his head.
This vrata is open to everyone – men, women, young girls, and married couples. While it can be kept on any Monday, the first Monday after Amavasya (new moon) holds special power. In 2026, February 23 is one such highly auspicious Somavara.
Somavara Vrata 2026: Full List of Dates
Here are all the Monday fasting dates for the year:
- January 19 – Parna: Jan 20, 7:14 AM
- February 23 – Parna: Feb 24, 6:56 AM ← Next fast
- March 23 – Parna: Mar 24, 6:30 AM
- April 20 – Parna: Apr 21, 6:05 AM
- May 18 – Parna: May 19, 5:48 AM
- June 15 – Parna: Jun 16, 5:45 AM
- July 20 – Parna: Jul 21, 5:56 AM
- August 17 – Parna: Aug 18, 6:08 AM
- September 14 – Parna: Sep 15, 6:17 AM
- October 12 – Parna: Oct 13, 6:26 AM
- November 9 – Parna: Nov 10, 6:41 AM
- December 14 – Parna: Dec 15, 7:04 AM
Simple Step-by-Step Guide to Observe Somavara Vrata
You don’t need to be an expert to keep this fast. Here’s how millions do it every Monday:
1. Wake up before sunrise and take a holy bath.
2. Wear white or light-coloured clothes.
3. Visit a Shiva temple or set up a small altar at home.
4. Perform Rudrabhishek with milk, curd, honey, ghee, and Gangajal.
5. Offer bel patra, white flowers, bhasma (vibhuti), and dhatura.
6. Chant “Om Namah Shivaya” at least 108 times.
7. Read or listen to the Somavara Vrata Katha in the evening.
8. Break the fast the next morning after offering prayers (parna).
You can keep a complete fast, have fruits and milk, or eat one light meal after 12 noon – whatever suits your health.
Why Observe Somavara Vrata? Real Benefits Devotees Swear By
According to ancient texts and living traditions:
- Unmarried girls keep it for a good, loving husband.
- Married couples pray for harmony and healthy children.
- People facing financial or health troubles find unexpected relief.
- The vrata is said to grant moksha and a place in Kailash after this life.
Legend says even Chandra Dev (Moon God) performed this fast and received Shiva’s blessings. Sage Vashishta too observed it and was blessed with a divine wife.
Regional Flavours of the Same Sacred Fast
- North & West India: Shravan Somvar (July-August) is the biggest.
- Karnataka & Andhra: Karthika Somavara is celebrated grandly.
- Tamil Nadu: Karthigai Somavaram in November-December draws huge crowds.
As we step into the last week before Somavara Vrata 2026, the message from Shiva temples is clear – simplicity is the key. A sincere heart, a few bel leaves, and the chant of “Om Namah Shivaya” is all Lord Shiva asks for.
Whether you are fasting for the first time or continuing a family tradition, February 23, 2026, is the perfect Monday to begin or renew your connection with Bholenath.
Har Har Mahadev!
