Upvaas, or fasting, in Hinduism is mainly observed for the
fulfillment of a vow. Upvas is also referred as 'Vrats.' But
'Vrat' has a wider meaning and it is not just curtailed to the
fasting observed for material or other gains. Each day in a week
is dedicated to one or more of the gods in the Hindu pantheon. A
particular deity is appeased by the devotee on a particular day.
Thus Monday is usually dedicated to Lord Shiva. Upvass, or
fasting, on Mondays begins at sunrise and ends at sunset. On the
day, food is only eaten after evening prayer. Lord Shiva and
Goddess Parvati are worshipped on the day. Of course, no worship
begins without remembering Lord Ganesha. The fasting on Mondays
in the Shravan month is considered even more auspicious. It is
believed that those people who observe Upvaas on Monday will
have their desires fulfilled and will be blessed with wisdom. In
some areas, fasting on Mondays is observed by unmarried women to
get an ideal husband. The reason for fasting on a day is usually
traced back t