The holy month of Lord Shiva.

The month Lord Shiva saved the universe.

During the Samudra Manthan — the great churning of the cosmic ocean — a deadly poison, Halahal, emerged with the power to destroy all of creation. To protect the universe, Lord Shiva consumed the poison and held it in his throat, which turned blue. This is why he is known as Neelkanth.

Every Monday of Shravan — Shravan Somvar — devotees offer water and milk to the Shivling to cool and honour this sacrifice. It is considered the most powerful time of the year to seek Mahadev's grace, release doshas, and begin spiritual practice with sincerity.