As per temple traditions, the rituals began with the abhishek of Lord Mahakal using Hariom water. This was followed by ceremonial worship with Panchamrit prepared from milk, curd, ghee, sugar, honey and fruit juices. The elaborate worship reflected centuries-old Shaiva customs that are unique to the Mahakaleshwar Temple, one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva.
During the adornment, Lord Mahakal was decorated with a silver crown shaped like Sheshnag, a silver skull garland, rudraksha malas and garlands of fragrant flowers. Offerings of fruits and sweets were presented as bhog. The sanctum resonated with devotional fervour as priests performed the rituals with precision and discipline.
Before the main Bhasma Aarti, Nandi Maharaj was ceremonially bathed, meditated upon and worshipped in the Nandi Hall. Following this, the Bhasma Aarti commenced with the rhythmic beats of damru, the sound of conch shells, and the ringing of cymbals. Sacred ash was offered to Lord Mahakal by priests of the Mahanirvani Akhada. According to religious belief, it is after the offering of bhasma that Lord Mahakal manifests in a tangible form for devotees, symbolising the cycle of creation and dissolution.
Devotees from across the country and abroad attended the Aarti and sought blessings for prosperity, health and peace. Temple authorities said elaborate arrangements were made to manage the crowd and ensure a smooth darshan experience. Security personnel and temple volunteers were deployed to maintain order during the early morning rituals.
The Bhasma Aarti holds special spiritual significance and is performed daily during Brahma Muhurta. It symbolises Lord Shiva’s ascetic and tantric form and is considered one of the most revered rituals in Hindu worship. On special occasions such as Shravan month and Mahashivratri, the number of devotees increases substantially, for which advance registration arrangements are in place.
On Tuesday, the temple premises remained immersed in devotion and reverence. Devotees described the divine adornment and the spiritual atmosphere as a deeply moving experience, calling the darshan of Lord Mahakal’s royal form truly unforgettable.
.jpg)
