KATHMANDU, July 30: There’s an age-old Nepali proverb which roughly translates to, a bull that goes blind in Shrawan sees everything green his entire life. It’s been rightly stated, as not just nature, but the color preference during the whole of Shrawan is dominated by green and other earthy colors, including yellow, and red. 

Green represents lushness, renewal, and fertility. The warmth of the sun upon clearing of the sky, and happiness is denoted by yellow, whereas red signifies love, joy, and the conjugal strength. 

Hindu women flaunt the vibrant colors in forms of bangles, shoes,  and potey (glass beads). Legends say that women pay special attention to decorate themselves during Shrawan in rich colors to please Lord Shiva. It further suggests that doing so blesses married women with their husband’s longevity, and good health of their family. On the other hand, unmarried women join the bandwagon in hopes of finding a man of their dreams.

The month of Shrawan is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Throughout the month, devotees, mostly women, keep fast to please the deity. Mondays are especially revered, and the believers of Shiva visit his shrines to pay homage. 

Though the reasons for adorning the vibrant colors vary from person to person, the common practice among devotees enhances the energy the tri-colors of green, yellow, and red illuminates.