Monday (Somvar) Vrat Katha

In a town lived a wealthy merchant who had everything except children. Every day he poured water on the Shivalinga and worshipped Lord Shiva. Pleased with his devotion, Goddess Parvati asked Shiva to fulfill his wish. Shiva said the merchant was not destined to have children, but at Parvati\'s insistence, he granted the merchant a son. A son was born to the merchant, but Shiva had declared the boy would live only twelve years. When the boy turned twelve, the merchant sent him to Kashi and asked him to worship at every Shiva temple along the way. In one town, the boy performed an elaborate worship of Lord Shiva. Seeing his devotion, Shiva appeared and extended his lifespan. The boy reached Kashi and continued his worship of Lord Shiva there. Pleased, Shiva blessed him with a long and happy life. When the boy returned home, the merchant was overjoyed beyond measure. Since then, people observe the Monday fast and worship Lord Shiva to seek fulfillment of their wishes.

Observe the fast on Monday. Offer water, milk, bel leaves, and dhatura on the Shivalinga. Recite Shiv Chalisa and chant Om Namah Shivaya. Listen to the katha in the evening and break the fast. Observing for sixteen consecutive Mondays yields special blessings.

The Monday fast is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is observed for wish fulfillment, a happy married life, and the blessing of children.