Shravan 2026: 4 Mondays or 5? The Big Calendar Confusion Cleared, Check Exact Dates

The holy month of Shravan is a beautiful time when the natural world turns into lush greenery, and people all over India spend their days praying to Lord Shiva.But if you are planning for your 2026 fasting days, you might be confused by the two different start dates on your calendar.

The reason is that North India and Western/Southern states (Maharashtra) follow different traditional systems.

According to Purnimanta calendar, the holy month kicks off early in the North, on July 30, 2026, and ends on August 28. However, in Maharashtra and the southern part, which follows the Amanta calendar, the month begins on August 13 and finishes on September 11, 2026. This difference is important to know, so you don’t miss the correct days for your prayers.

4 Mondays or 5? Check the Exact Fasting Dates for Your Region

The Shravan Somvars, the Mondays of this month, are the most powerful days to fast and give water to the Shivling. If you are living in North India, your Ekadashi Vrats will be on August 3, August 10, August 17 and August 24.However, if you are a resident of Maharashtra or keep the fast as per Amanta calendar, your four Mondays are August 17, August 24, August 31 and September 7.There is a remarkable coincidence on Monday, August 17. The festival of Nag Panchami is celebrated on this particular date on a Shravan Monday.

Praying on this special day will double the blessings of your prayers for your family’s financial prosperity and peace.

Simple Rules for Your Fast and the Big Festivals to Celebrate

Shravan is not just a time for fasting, but a whole month of family celebrations. Tuesdays are special for married women to observe the Mangala Gauri fast to pray for a long and happy marriage.The month also has major festive days like Hariyali Teej on August 15 and Raksha Bandhan on August 28.The rules are pretty simple if you are on any of these fasts. You should avoid altogether heavy foods, onions, garlic and grains. Instead, opt for a clean diet of fresh fruits, milk, makhana and plenty of water to keep your body light and mind peaceful in this holy season.