fasts and vrats
What is the difference between Solah Somvar vrat and Shravan Somvar vrat?
Solah Somvar vrat
Solah Somvar means 16 Mondays. The tradition describes it in the Shiva Purana. A person chooses any 16 consecutive Mondays and fasts on each one, worshipping Shiva. Many people begin it in the month of Shravan, but they can start it at any time of year and finish it 16 weeks later. The vrat comes with its own story: Parvati tests Shiva's devotion by fasting for 16 Mondays, and Shiva blesses the practice. There is a formal sankalpa, or vow, and a katha, or story, that goes with it. Once begun, the 16 Mondays should be done without a break.
Shravan Somvar vrat
Shravan Somvar refers only to the Mondays that fall within the month of Shravan, which is usually 4 or 5 Mondays depending on the calendar. This is a shorter, seasonal practice. It also honors Shiva and is very common in Hindu households. Many people do Shravan Somvar every year as part of the Shravan season, which is seen as a time of devotion to Shiva. It does not require a formal sankalpa the way Solah Somvar does, though many people do make a vow.
How they differ
The main differences are length and timing. Solah Somvar is 16 weeks long and can start any Monday. Shravan Somvar is only 4 or 5 weeks and happens only in Shravan. Solah Somvar has a specific story about Parvati and Shiva, while Shravan Somvar is part of the general Shravan season of Shiva worship. The rules for breaking a Solah Somvar are stricter—you should not skip a Monday. Shravan Somvar is more flexible and is often done alongside other Shravan practices like eating fruit, avoiding salt, or wearing blue.
In practice today
Many people do Shravan Somvar because it fits the calendar and the season. It is easier to keep because it is short and happens at a set time each year. Solah Somvar is chosen by people who want a longer, more formal commitment to Shiva. Some people do both—they observe Shravan Somvar during the month and then continue with Solah Somvar if they have begun it. Practices vary by family, region, and personal choice. Some households are strict about the rules, while others keep the spirit of the fast in a lighter way.