Why Women Wear Green Bangles During Sawan: Tradition, Belief & Significance

The month of Sawan (Shravan) is one of the holiest periods in the Hindu calendar. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva, and devotees, especially women, observe fasts, offer prayers, and follow unique customs that reflect faith and spirituality. Among these customs, one of the most visually striking traditions is women adorning their wrists with green bangles.

But have you ever wondered why green bangles are worn during Sawan, and what makes them so special?

Let’s explore the deeper cultural, spiritual, and symbolic meanings behind this beautiful tradition.

What is Sawan?

Sawan, also known as Shravan, usually falls between July and August each year. It is the fifth month of the Hindu lunar calendar and is considered highly auspicious for worshipping Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. The Mondays of this month, called Sawan Somwar, hold special importance and are observed with strict fasting and devotion.

For married and unmarried women alike, this month is a time of prayer, purification, and celebration.

The Significance of Green in Sawan

1. Symbol of Fertility and Prosperity

In Indian tradition, green is the color of life, fertility, and nature. It is deeply associated with growth, harmony, and new beginnings. During Sawan, many women pray for a happy married life, good health, and future fertility—making green a symbolic color of hope and abundance.

2. Auspiciousness for Married Women

For married women (Suhaagans), wearing green bangles is believed to bring good fortune, the long life of their husbands, and marital bliss. It is also a way to honor Goddess Parvati, who is considered the ideal wife and is closely associated with the month of Sawan.

3. Cultural Beauty and Tradition

Green bangles are not only spiritual but also aesthetic. They enhance a woman’s beauty and are often paired with green sarees, bindis, and mehendi (henna)—turning devotion into celebration. During Sawan, many regions see women participating in swings, folk songs, and community gatherings, dressed vibrantly in green.

4. Connection with Nature and Rain

Sawan is the peak of the monsoon season, and green reflects the blooming of nature all around. Wearing green bangles represents harmony with the Earth and the celebration of new life after the rains.

5. Unmarried Girls and the Search for a Blessing

Unmarried girls also wear green bangles during Sawan while praying for a good life partner. It is believed that doing so pleases Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati and blesses them with a loving future marriage.

 Religious Importance

The tradition of wearing green bangles is especially prominent in North India, including states like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh. The practice often goes hand in hand with:

• Kanwar Yatra (a pilgrimage dedicated to Lord Shiva)

• Sawan Somwar Vrat (Monday fasting)

• Applying Mehendi (henna) on hands

• Wearing green attire for poojas

Women believe that by embracing these rituals, they receive blessings of peace, prosperity, and spiritual fulfillment.

 Regional Celebrations and Variations

• In Maharashtra, green bangles (called chooda) are an essential part of a new bride’s attire.

• In Punjab and Haryana, the month is celebrated with Teej and the ritual of wearing green is mixed with vibrant folk songs and swing traditions.

• In Rajasthan, women apply mehendi and exchange green bangles as a token of love and friendship.

 Quotes from Traditional Beliefs

“Harali hari chudiya Sawan ki shaan hai, har suhagan ki pehchan hai.”
(Translation: Green bangles are the pride of Sawan and the identity of every married woman.)

“Hari chudiyan pehn kar, mehendi racha kar, Shiv-Parvati ko yaad karti hoon.”
(With green bangles and henna on my hands, I remember Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.)

 Modern Relevance of the Tradition

While the tradition is deeply rooted in spirituality, it has also evolved to reflect self-expression, style, and celebration. Today, women wear green bangles during Sawan as a way to reconnect with their culture, take pride in their heritage, and celebrate womanhood.

 Final Thoughts

Wearing green bangles during Sawan is a blend of devotion, beauty, and symbolism. It reflects a woman’s inner strength, connection with nature, and her prayerful spirit. Whether you’re religious or simply want to honor the cultural tradition, green bangles during Sawan are a graceful reminder of India’s timeless values.

As Sawan arrives in 2025, celebrate it with faith, color, and love—just like generations before you.

Happy Sawan! May your life be as vibrant and blessed as the green bangles you wear.