Karthika Somavara Vratham 2026 – Monday or Somvar Fasting in Kartik Month in Telangana - Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka
Mondays in the month of Kartik is observed as Karthika Somavara Vratam in Andhra Pradesh, Telangana and Karnataka. The fasting is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Kartika Masam 2026 in Kannada and Telugu calendars begins on November 10 and ends on December 8. Karthika Somavara Vratham 2026 dates are November 16, November 23, November 30, and December 8.
In Hinduism, Mondays are generally dedicated to the worship of Lord Shiva. But the Mondays in the month of Shravan and Kartik are considered special by Lord Shiva devotees.
Shiva temples in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana observe various rituals on the day. Special abhishekams are performed to please Shiva who is Abhiseka Priya. A single drop of water offered with unwavering devotion makes him happy.
Somvar (Monday) gets its name from one of thousand names of Lord Shiva – Someshwara. The crescent moon (Soma) on the matted locks of Shiva gives him the name Someshwara.
It is believed that the moon observed Somavara Vratam to escape from the curse of Daksha and to get the blessings from Lord Shiva and a spot in His matted locks.
It must be noted that Kartik month in North India is generally dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
Kartik month in Maharashtra and Gujarat is also similar to the calendars followed in Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.
Monday fasting and worship of Lord Shiva is also observed in Tamil Nadu during Kartik month. Karthigai Masam in Tamil Nadu begins in 2026 begins on November 17 and ends on December 15.
How to observe Karthika Somavara Vratam
The fast is from sunrise to next day morning sunrise.
After bathing, prayers are offered to Shiva. You can visit Shiva Temple or perform prayers at home.
How to observe Karthika Somavara Vratam
The fast is from sunrise to next day morning sunrise.
After bathing, prayers are offered to Shiva. You can visit Shiva Temple or perform prayers at home.
If you have Shivling or Rudraksha at home you can offer a drop of water to it. Some people make natural Shivling using mud or clay and offer water.
Try to chant 'Om Namah Shivaya' on the day. It can be chanted throughout the day when you are free.
Vrat foods like Sabudana etc can be eaten on the day. Fruits and juices are permitted.
Evening puja should be offered to Shiva during Pradosham period - starting from an hour before sunset.
Next day morning break the fast by offering prayers to Shiva.
Try to chant 'Om Namah Shivaya' on the day. It can be chanted throughout the day when you are free.
Vrat foods like Sabudana etc can be eaten on the day. Fruits and juices are permitted.
Evening puja should be offered to Shiva during Pradosham period - starting from an hour before sunset.
Next day morning break the fast by offering prayers to Shiva.