Question 1

When is Shiva Shayanotsava observed?

Accepted Answer

Shiva Shayanotsava falls on Ashadha Purnima, the full-moon tithi in the bright half of the lunar month of Ashadha. The observance is governed by the tithi current at sunrise, not simply by the clock time when Purnima begins or ends. Its Gregorian date therefore changes each year.

Question 2

What is the meaning of Shiva Shayanotsava?

Accepted Answer

Shiva Shayanotsava is a Shaiva observance whose name refers to Shiva’s repose or resting state. The title indicates the devotional focus, but it does not by itself establish one universally recognised legend or temple ritual. Local Shaiva traditions may explain the day more fully.

Question 3

How is Shiva Shayanotsava पूजा performed?

Accepted Answer

A simple Shiva puja can include cleaning the shrine, lighting a lamp, offering water, flowers, incense, and fruit, and reciting a familiar prayer to Shiva. These are general Shiva-worship practices rather than confirmed prescriptions unique to Shiva Shayanotsava. A local temple or family custom should take priority.

Question 4

Is fasting required on Shiva Shayanotsava?

Accepted Answer

No obligatory fast can be stated with confidence for Shiva Shayanotsava. A household may choose a light fast or a simple meal, but fasting should follow the local Shaiva custom rather than an assumed rule. Puja and observance of the sunrise-based Purnima date remain possible without a severe fast.

Date	Tithi	Lunar month	Governing time
Sun, 21 Jul, 2024	ShuklaPurnima	Ashadha	sunrise (udaya tithi)
Thu, 10 Jul, 2025	ShuklaPurnima	Ashadha	sunrise (udaya tithi)
Wed, 29 Jul, 2026	ShuklaPurnima	Ashadha	sunrise (udaya tithi)
Sun, 18 Jul, 2027	ShuklaPurnima	Ashadha	sunrise (udaya tithi)
Thu, 6 Jul, 2028	ShuklaPurnima	Ashadha	sunrise (udaya tithi)
Wed, 25 Jul, 2029	ShuklaPurnima	Ashadha	sunrise (udaya tithi)
Mon, 15 Jul, 2030	ShuklaPurnima	Ashadha	sunrise (udaya tithi)
Fri, 4 Jul, 2031	ShuklaPurnima	Ashadha	sunrise (udaya tithi)
Thu, 22 Jul, 2032	ShuklaPurnima	Ashadha	sunrise (udaya tithi)

Shiva Shayanotsava

Dates by year