The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust is meeting in Ayodhya to consider three shortlisted candidates for its first full-time CEO after a selection process that received 5,585 applications.

The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust has begun a crucial meeting in Ayodhya to decide on the appointment of its first full-time Chief Executive Officer (CEO).

The meeting follows the submission of the final report by a three-member search committee, which shortlisted three candidates after screening 5,585 applications for the post. 

Trust member Mahant Dinendra Das Maharaj had said the meeting would begin at 2 pm and that the decision taken would be agreed upon by the Trust members. Treasurer Swami Govind Dev Giri Maharaj, however, said the Trust would decide whether to announce the selected candidate immediately. 

Three-member panel submitted final recommendations

The search committee comprises retired Lieutenant General Vishnu Kant Chaturvedi, former scientist Suresh Haware and former Justice Pramod Kohli.

The committee's final report was submitted to the Trust on Tuesday after an extensive screening process. The panel also prepared a reserve list of three candidates, according to reports.

Kohli said the committee received 5,585 applications and created a 600-mark evaluation form based on eligibility criteria to handle the large number of applications.

The selection process subsequently involved online interactions and face-to-face interviews in Ayodhya before the final candidates were recommended. 

CEO appointment to strengthen administration

The appointment is expected to establish a dedicated executive leadership structure for the Ram temple's expanding administrative requirements.

The Trust is also considering changes to its administrative framework, including defining the powers and responsibilities of the proposed CEO and the division of duties between the CEO and other office-bearers. 

The meeting is therefore significant not only for the appointment itself but also for the broader restructuring of the Trust's management system.

The Trust is expected to take a final decision after considering the search committee's recommendations and deliberating on the candidates' suitability for the post.

Thousands of devotees thronged the historic Mahamrityunjaya Temple in Rewa on the first Monday of the holy month of Sawan, offering prayers and performing Jalabhishek amid chants of 'Har Har Mahadev' and 'Bam Bam Bhole'. The centuries-old temple, known for its rare white Shivling believed to have 1,001 tiny holes, witnessed a steady stream of worshippers from the early hours of Monday.

The city remained immersed in devotional fervour as Shiva temples across Rewa welcomed devotees seeking blessings for health, prosperity and family well-being.

Special Worship at Historic Temple

Located inside the Rewa Fort complex, the Mahamrityunjaya Temple became the focal point of religious activities on the first Sawan Monday. Devotees offered Gangajal, milk, bael leaves, dhatura flowers and other sacred offerings while participating in Jalabhishek and Rudrabhishek rituals.

The nearby Mankameshwar Shiva Temple in Kothi Compound also witnessed heavy footfall throughout the day.

Women, children, elderly devotees and young worshippers queued patiently for darshan as temple premises echoed with devotional chants.

Temple Known for Rare White Shivling

The Mahamrityunjaya Temple is regarded as one of Rewa's most significant religious landmarks due to its historical and spiritual importance. The temple, believed to be around 500 years old, is especially known for its unique white Shivling.

According to local belief, the Shivling contains 1,001 tiny holes, which devotees associate with the thousand divine eyes of Lord Shiva. Worshippers believe that offering prayers and chanting the Mahamrityunjaya Mantra at the temple helps remove illnesses and protects devotees from untimely death.

Linked to Baghel Dynasty

Local tradition holds that the self-manifested Shivling was discovered during excavation work carried out during the reign of the Baghel dynasty. Another popular belief associated with the temple is that the white Shivling changes its colour according to seasonal variations.

The temple attracts large crowds during Mahashivratri, the holy month of Sawan, and Basant Panchami, when devotees from different parts of Madhya Pradesh and neighbouring states visit for worship.

Devotional Activities Continue Throughout the Day

Chief priest Vanspati Prasad Tiwari said the month of Sawan is considered one of the most sacred periods for the worship of Lord Shiva, with the first Monday holding special religious significance.

He said devotees began arriving during Brahma Muhurta and continued to perform Jalabhishek, Rudrabhishek and Mahamrityunjaya Mantra chanting throughout the day. According to him, worship performed with faith and proper rituals during Sawan is believed to fulfil devotees' wishes and bring peace, good health and prosperity.

Strong Administrative Arrangements

The temple premises were decorated with flowers and traditional decorations to mark the occasion. Temple authorities, along with the local administration, made special arrangements to facilitate smooth darshan and crowd management as thousands of devotees visited throughout the day.

With the beginning of Sawan festivities, Rewa's temples reflected an atmosphere of devotion, as worshippers offered prayers to Lord Shiva seeking happiness, harmony and prosperity.

The sacred Bhasma Aarti at the Shri Mahakaleshwar Temple in Ujjain was performed with traditional Vedic rituals early on Saturday morning, as thousands of devotees gathered to witness one of Hinduism's most revered spiritual ceremonies. The temple echoed with chants of "Jai Shri Mahakal" as Lord Mahakal was offered a ceremonial Panchamrit Abhishek, followed by an elaborate adornment and the sacred application of holy ash.

The temple doors opened around 4:00 a.m., marking the beginning of the daily pre-dawn ritual. Priests first performed worship of all deities present inside the sanctum sanctorum before commencing the ritual bathing of Lord Mahakal with holy water.

Panchamrit Abhishek Performed with Vedic Rituals

Following the Jalabhishek, the deity was ceremonially bathed with Panchamrit, a sacred mixture of milk, curd, ghee, sugar, and fruit juices, in accordance with long-standing temple traditions.

The rituals were accompanied by Vedic chants and the ringing of the temple's first ceremonial bell. Sacred water was offered with the chanting of "Hari Om," creating a deeply spiritual atmosphere inside the temple.

The Panchamrit Abhishek is regarded as one of the most significant rituals in the daily worship of Lord Mahakal and symbolizes purity, devotion, and divine blessings.

Grand Adornment of Lord Mahakal

After the Abhishek, priests performed the divine adornment (Shringar) of Lord Mahakal.

The deity was decorated with:

• Sacred Bilva leaves
• A silver crown (Rajat Mukut)
• Rudraksha garlands
• A silver Mundmala
• Fragrant flower garlands
• Traditional Tripundra on the forehead
• Silver symbols of the Trishul, Damru, and Sheshnag

The elaborate decoration reflected the temple's centuries-old traditions and offered devotees a mesmerizing glimpse of Lord Shiva in his majestic form.

As part of the rituals, Lord Ganesha, Goddess Parvati, and Lord Kartikeya were also worshipped before fruits and sweets were offered as Bhog (Naivedya) to Lord Mahakal.

Sacred Bhasma Offered During Aarti

Following the Kapoor Aarti and Naivedya, the most awaited ritual of the morning—the offering of holy ash (Bhasma)—was performed by representatives of the Maha Nirvani Akhara.

According to Hindu tradition, the Bhasma Aarti holds immense spiritual significance. It is believed that after the application of the sacred ash, Lord Mahakal manifests in a divine form, blessing devotees with his presence.

The unique ritual symbolizes the transient nature of life and the eternal power of Lord Shiva, making it one of the most distinctive religious ceremonies performed anywhere in India.

Temple Resonates with Devotional Chants

A large number of devotees attended the early morning ceremony to seek the blessings of Baba Mahakal.

As the rituals concluded, the temple complex reverberated with continuous chants of "Jai Shri Mahakal," creating an atmosphere of devotion and spiritual fervor. Pilgrims from different parts of the country offered prayers and witnessed the divine morning rituals with deep faith and reverence.

The daily Bhasma Aarti remains one of the biggest spiritual attractions at the Mahakaleshwar Temple, drawing thousands of devotees throughout the year, especially during the holy month of Shravan when the number of pilgrims increases significantly.

The sacred ceremony continues to uphold centuries-old traditions while reinforcing Ujjain's status as one of Hinduism's most important pilgrimage destinations and one of the twelve revered Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva.

The world-famous Shri Mahakaleshwar Temple in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh, witnessed another spiritually uplifting morning on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, as the sacred Bhasma Aarti was performed on the occasion of Ashadha Shukla Navami. The temple doors opened at 4:00 AM, welcoming thousands of devotees who had been waiting since late night for the opportunity to witness one of Hinduism's most revered rituals.

The atmosphere echoed with chants of "Har Har Mahadev" and "Jai Shri Mahakal", creating a deeply devotional environment as worshippers from across India and abroad gathered for the early morning ceremony.

Panchamrit Abhishek Performed with Vedic Rituals

As per centuries-old traditions, the rituals began with the worship of all deities present in the sanctum sanctorum. Lord Mahakal was first bathed with holy water, followed by the Panchamrit Abhishek, performed using milk, curd, ghee, honey, and fruit juices.

After the sacred bath, the Jyotirlinga was decorated with sandalwood paste, bhang, fragrant substances, and traditional ornaments. Temple priests conducted the rituals while chanting Vedic mantras before preparing for the Bhasma Aarti.

This ancient ritual continues to attract devotees from across the world, who consider witnessing the Bhasma Aarti a once-in-a-lifetime spiritual experience.

Sacred Bhasma Aarti Draws Thousands of Devotees

Before the offering of the sacred ash, the temple bells rang and holy water was ceremonially offered while prayers invoking Lord Mahakal were recited.

Following the Camphor Aarti, the Jyotirlinga was traditionally covered with a sacred cloth before the holy ash (Bhasma) was offered according to established temple customs.

The Bhasma Aarti is one of the defining traditions of the Mahakaleshwar Temple. In Hindu belief, the sacred ash symbolizes the eternal truth of life and death, reminding devotees of the transient nature of the physical world and the timeless presence of Lord Shiva.

Divine Shringar with Sheshnag, Tripundra and Bilva Leaves

After the completion of the Bhasma Aarti, Lord Mahakal was adorned with an elaborate and mesmerizing Shringar (divine decoration).

The deity was decorated with:

• A silver Sheshnag crown
• A silver Mundmala
• Rudraksha garlands
• The sacred Tripundra
• Bilva (Bel) leaves
• Fresh, fragrant flowers
• Traditional ornaments

The beautifully decorated form of Baba Mahakal captivated devotees, who folded their hands in prayer while chanting "Har Har Mahadev." Many devotees remained immersed in meditation, considering the divine darshan a deeply spiritual blessing.

According to religious belief, after the offering of Bhasma, Lord Mahakal manifests in a divine visible form for the benefit of His devotees.

Devotees Continue Traditional Worship

Following the morning Aarti, devotees also offered prayers to Nandi Maharaj, the sacred bull and devoted vehicle of Lord Shiva.

As part of a long-standing tradition, many worshippers whispered their wishes into Nandi's ear, believing that their prayers would be conveyed directly to Lord Mahakal. This ritual remains one of the most cherished customs observed daily at the temple.

Increasing Footfall Ahead of Shravan Month

With the holy month of Shravan approaching, the number of pilgrims visiting the Mahakaleshwar Temple has increased significantly.

The temple administration made additional arrangements to ensure smooth darshan for devotees. Security personnel and temple volunteers managed the long queues efficiently, allowing uninterrupted access to the temple despite the heavy rush.

Officials also appealed to visitors to follow temple guidelines and maintain discipline throughout their visit to ensure a peaceful and organized pilgrimage experience.

The world-famous Shri Mahakaleshwar Temple witnessed deep religious fervour on Sunday morning as thousands of devotees attended the traditional Bhasma Aarti of Baba Mahakal. The sacred ritual, held during the early hours before sunrise, drew pilgrims from different parts of Madhya Pradesh and several other states. Temple premises remained filled with chants of “Har Har Mahadev” as devotees waited for darshan of the Jyotirlinga in its divine royal form. The Bhasma Aarti, considered one of the most unique and spiritually significant rituals dedicated to Lord Shiva, began shortly after the temple doors were opened around 4 am.

As per temple traditions, priests and seers first performed rituals dedicated to all deities installed inside the sanctum sanctorum. The atmosphere inside the temple turned devotional as Vedic mantras echoed through the corridors. After the initial rituals, priests performed Jalabhishek of Lord Mahakal using holy water. The deity was then worshipped with Panchamrit prepared from milk, curd, ghee, sugar and fruit juices. Temple authorities stated that every ritual was conducted according to ancient customs and long-established traditions associated with the Mahakaleshwar shrine.

During the ceremonial worship, priests offered sandalwood paste, bhang, tripund and trishul to Baba Mahakal before beginning the elaborate adornment process. Devotees present inside the temple watched the rituals with devotion as the Jyotirlinga was prepared for the sacred Bhasma offering. Following the Kapoor Aarti, the deity was covered with cloth as part of the traditional process before applying the holy ash. The sacred ash was offered by representatives of the Mahanirvani Akhara, which has historically been associated with the ritual. Religious beliefs associated with the ceremony state that Baba Mahakal gives divine manifested darshan after the offering of Bhasma.

After the completion of the Bhasma ritual, the priests performed the royal adornment of Baba Mahakal. The deity was decorated with a silver Sheshnag crown, silver mundmala and Rudraksha garlands. Fragrant garlands made from mogra and rose flowers were also offered during the ceremony. The floral decoration, combined with silver ornaments and traditional offerings, gave the Jyotirlinga a majestic royal appearance. Special offerings of fruits and sweets were presented as bhog after the completion of the adornment rituals.

Temple officials said the number of devotees attending Bhasma Aarti has continued to increase over the past few years, especially after the expansion and development of the Mahakal Lok corridor. Pilgrims from across the country regularly visit Ujjain to witness the early morning ritual, which is regarded as one of the most sacred traditions in Shaivism. Several devotees who attended Sunday’s ceremony described the experience as spiritually uplifting and emotionally significant. Many pilgrims reached the temple premises late at night to secure entry for the Bhasma Aarti.

Security and crowd management arrangements remained in place throughout the ceremony. Temple administration officials monitored the entry process to ensure smooth movement of devotees inside the premises. Volunteers and staff members guided pilgrims during darshan and ritual proceedings. Special arrangements were also made for elderly devotees and women attending the ceremony. Authorities maintained that the system introduced after the redevelopment of the temple complex has helped improve crowd management during major religious occasions.

Religious scholars say the Bhasma Aarti at Mahakaleshwar Temple holds a special place among Hindu spiritual traditions because Lord Shiva is worshipped here in a form connected to both life and death. The offering of sacred ash symbolises detachment, mortality and spiritual awakening. According to mythology and temple traditions, Baba Mahakal is considered the ruler of time and death, making the Ujjain shrine one of the most revered Jyotirlingas in the country. The ritual continues to attract saints, ascetics and devotees seeking spiritual blessings and peace.

Ujjain has witnessed a steady rise in religious tourism in recent years due to large-scale infrastructure development around the temple area. Hotels, transport services and local businesses have also benefited from the increasing footfall of pilgrims visiting the city. Officials associated with the temple administration said efforts are continuously being made to improve facilities for visitors while preserving the spiritual and historical identity of the shrine. The Mahakaleshwar Temple remains one of the most important pilgrimage centres in India and continues to feature prominently during major Hindu festivals and religious events.

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