The Significance of 16 Mondays: Spiritual Growth through Fasting

16 Somvar Vrat (Monday Fast) refers to fasting on 16 Mondays and is a strong Hindu ritual dedicated to Lord Shiva. It starts in the sacred month of Shravan, which is the most auspicious period to honor Mahadev. But why 16 Mondays? What is the secret behind this number?

Why Monday Is Special for Lord Shiva

According to Ishita Sharma, a digital creator, Chandrama (the Moon) rules Monday, or Somvar. In Hindu mythology, Lord Shiva blessed the Moon by giving Monday as his worship day. The Moon is also very related to our mind and emotions in Vedic astrology. As the Moon controls our thoughts, fasting on Mondays relieves the mind and brings emotional balance.

The 16 Kalas of the Moon and Sadashiva

The Moon has 16 Kalas or phases, they are its different forms in the process of waxing and waning. Sadashiva (eternal form of Shiva) too possesses 16 divine qualities or "Kalas":
Nivritti, Pratishtha, Vidhya, Shanti, Indhika, Deepika, Rechika, Mochika, Para, Sukshma, Sukshmamrita, Jnana, Jnanamrita, Aapyayini, Vyaapini, Vyomrupa.

By fasting on 16 Mondays, devotees try to cleanse their mind and gradually cultivate these 16 divine virtues in themselves, reaching the ultimate state of Shiva.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Ishita Sharma (@sootjiboley)

A Path to Spiritual Growth and Fulfilled Prayers

16 Somvar is more than just a wish-fulfilling vrat (fast). It is a journey of faith, discipline, and surrender. From Goddess Parvati's penance to modern-day devotees, this fast has helped people achieve peace, good health, and even suitable life partners. With every Monday, you can move closer to inner stillness and divine connection.