Ujjain, June 14: The Mahakaleshwar Temple hosted a grand Bhasma Aarti for Baba Mahakal on Sunday, coinciding with the auspicious Krishna Paksha Chaturdashi of the month. The deity was adorned in royal attire, embellished with a trident, tripund, damru, bhang, sandalwood, and bel leaves.
Early Sunday morning, after seeking the blessings of Lord Veerabhadra, the temple doors were opened amidst the sounds of drums and trumpets. As devotees caught their first glimpse of Baba Mahakal, the air filled with chants of “Jai Shri Mahakal,” echoing throughout the temple complex, which resonated with the sounds of bells, conch shells, and mantras.
With the opening of the temple gates, the ritual of Jalabhishek commenced, where Baba Mahakal was bathed with Panchamrit made from milk, yogurt, ghee, sugar, and fruit juices, along with offerings of trident, tripund, damru, bhang, sandalwood, and bel leaves.
The temple priests conducted the grand Aarti, attracting a large number of devotees who had queued since late Saturday night to witness this sacred event.
Traditionally, the ashes from cremation grounds were offered to Mahakal, but now, a special preparation made from cow dung of the Kapila breed and medicinal herbs is used. During the Bhasma Aarti, men are required to wear traditional dhoti-sola, while women must don sarees.
The Aarti of Baba Mahakal is renowned across the country and abroad, drawing not only the general public but also prominent personalities. To maintain order during the event, a significant number of police personnel were deployed around the temple area.
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