Shravan: Geetu Parmar Says Kindness to Animals Is Worship

For many devotees, Shravan means temple visits, fasting and prayers to Lord Shiva. However, astrologer Geetu Parmar believes true devotion goes beyond rituals.

According to Parmar, the holy month is also a chance to practise kindness and service. Moreover, she believes the way people treat animals, other people and nature is just as important as religious ceremonies.

“Develop a sense of service and start treating people with kindness,” Parmar said. “Mahadev is also known as Pashupatinath, the lord of all living beings. So, our behaviour towards animals is also important.”

Kindness to Animals Is Also Spiritual

Parmar believes compassion should extend to every living being. This includes pets, street dogs, cows, birds and other animals.

“When we stop being cruel to living beings and instead show them compassion, that too becomes a way of connecting with God,” she explained.

Therefore, helping an animal can become a simple act of devotion. For instance, offering food or water can make a difference. Similarly, providing shelter to an animal during heavy rain is another meaningful gesture.

The monsoon makes this message even more relevant. Animals often struggle during periods of heavy rainfall. As a result, small acts of care can offer them much-needed support.

Shravan Is a Time to Care for Nature

Parmar also encourages devotees to reconnect with nature during Shravan. Since the holy month falls during the monsoon, it offers a natural opportunity to nurture plants and trees.

She particularly recommends planting Bael, Neem and Tulsi. These plants also hold strong spiritual and cultural significance.

“When we care for them with love and devotion, it gives us a different kind of spiritual satisfaction,” Parmar said.

Moreover, looking after a plant requires patience. It needs regular watering, care and attention. Therefore, the simple act of nurturing a plant can gradually become a daily spiritual practice.

Devotion Can Fit Into a Busy Lifestyle

At the same time, Parmar understands that modern routines can be demanding. Many people may not have enough time to visit temples every day.

However, she believes busy schedules should not become a barrier to spirituality. Instead, people can find simple ways to stay connected with their faith.

“If you are busy or unable to visit a temple, you can listen to Shiv Chalisa, Rudra Ashtakam or other devotional prayers through your headphones,” she noted.

This approach makes spiritual practices easier to include in everyday life. Whether during a commute or a quiet break, listening to devotional prayers can create a peaceful moment.

Small Acts Can Create a Positive Atmosphere

Ultimately, Parmar’s message focuses on everyday actions. Waking up early, spending time in Shiva sadhana and practising mindfulness can all become part of a meaningful Shravan routine.

At the same time, kindness should remain central. Helping an animal, respecting nature and treating others with compassion can also become expressions of faith.

“The idea is to create a positive and peaceful atmosphere around you,” she said.

Shravan Goes Beyond Rituals

Shravan does not have to be limited to elaborate ceremonies. Instead, devotion can be reflected through simple and thoughtful actions.

A bowl of water for a stray dog, food for a hungry bird or care for a newly planted tree may seem like small gestures. Nevertheless, they can carry a deeper meaning when performed with compassion.

Ultimately, Parmar’s message is simple: faith is not only about what we pray for. It is also about how we treat the world around us.

So, this Shravan, let devotion extend beyond the temple. Show kindness to animals, nurture nature and spread compassion wherever you go.