Ujjain, May 30: On the full moon of Jyeshtha Adhik Maas, the renowned Mahakaleshwar Temple witnessed a divine Bhasma Aarti, drawing a massive crowd of devotees from across the country and abroad. The temple resonated with chants of “Har Har Mahadev” from enthusiastic Shiva devotees.
As per tradition, the temple gates were opened early on Saturday after receiving permission from Veerabhadra. The ritual began with the offering of water to Lord Mahakal for his ceremonial bath. Following this, the deity was bathed with Panchamrit, a sacred mixture of milk, yogurt, ghee, sugar, and honey. The atmosphere was charged with spiritual energy as mantras filled the sanctum.
After the special abhishek, Lord Mahakal was adorned in a unique style, showcasing his Jata Dhari form. A symbolic third eye was created on his forehead, and he was draped with a special garland made of fox nuts. Subsequently, the Mahanirvani Akhada offered Bhasma to the deity. The Bhasma Aarti was accompanied by the resonating sounds of conch shells, damru, and bells, creating a profoundly divine and spiritual environment. The entire temple complex was alive with the sounds of devotion and faith.
Bhasma symbolizes the impermanence of the material world, reminding devotees that everything ultimately turns to ashes, inspiring them to relinquish their ego. Traditionally, ashes from cremation were used, but now, according to custom, the Bhasma is prepared by burning dung cakes made from the dung of Kapila cows and wood from sacred trees like Shami, Peepal, Palash, Banyan, Amla, and Ber. Women can also participate in the rituals, but they observe the Aarti while covered with a veil, as per tradition.
The significance of this day was heightened due to the full moon of Adhik Maas, leading to long queues of devotees eager to glimpse their beloved deity, starting from late at night.
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