While prayers, fasting and temple visits are an integral part of Shravan for many devotees, astrologer Geetu Parmar believes the holy month is also an opportunity to practise compassion in everyday life. According to her, devotion to Mahadev goes beyond rituals and is reflected in how people treat others, care for animals and respect nature.

Speaking about the values associated with Shravan, Geetu says kindness should become a part of daily life. “Develop a sense of service and start treating people with kindness. Mahadev is also known as Pashupatinath, the lord of all living beings. So, our behaviour towards animals is also important,” she said.

According to her, caring for animals is itself a form of worship. “We should be kind to our pets, street dogs, cows, birds and other animals. When we stop being cruel to living beings and instead show them compassion, that too becomes a way of connecting with God,” she said.

Geetu also encourages people to use the monsoon season to reconnect with nature. “We should also learn to serve and respect nature. Since it is the monsoon season, this is a good time to take care of plants and trees,” she said.

She particularly recommends planting species that hold religious significance during Shravan. “During Shravan, you can plant and nurture trees and plants such as Bael, Neem and Tulsi. When we care for them with love and devotion, it gives us a different kind of spiritual satisfaction,” she said.

For those who find it difficult to visit temples because of busy schedules, Geetu believes spirituality can still become part of everyday life. “And today, we also have what we can call digital spirituality. If you are busy or unable to visit a temple, you can listen to Shiv Chalisa, Rudra Ashtakam or other devotional prayers through your headphones,” she said.

According to her, the purpose is simple. “The idea is to create a positive and peaceful atmosphere around you,” she said.

Sharing the do’s and don’ts of Shravan, Geetu says the month is also a good time to adopt healthier habits. “Try to wake up early throughout the month. Take a bath and spend some time in Shiva sadhana,” she added.