Thousands Gather at Mahakaleshwar Temple for Special 'Bhasma Aarti' on Second Sawan Somvar

Devotees, including Indian Cricketer Umesh Yadav, thronged Mahakaleshwar Temple in Ujjain for the second 'Sawan Somvar' to offer prayers and participate in the 'Bhasma Aarti' ritual. The special ceremony, held during Brahma Muhurta, featured a holy bath and anointing of Lord Shiva, followed by his grand procession.

Scores of devotees thronged the Mahakaleshwar temple located in Madhya Pradesh's Ujjain district on the occasion of the second 'Sawan Somvar' to offer prayers. Devotees queued up since early morning, seeking the blessings of Baba Mahakal (Lord Shiva) and participating in a special 'Bhasma Aarti' performed here.

Indian Cricketer Umesh Yadav was also spotted participating in the Bhasma Aarti, sitting in the Nandi hall to witness the unique ritual of offering with ashes. The ceremony, held between 3:30 and 5:30 in the morning during the 'Brahma Muhurta', is one of the temple's most famous rituals.

Temple priest Ashish Sharma explained the proceedings of the Bhasma Aarti, highlighting the holy bath with water and Panchamrit Mahabhishek—where the deity is anointed with milk, curd, ghee, honey, and fruit juices—followed by decoration with Bhang and sandalwood. The ritual culminates amidst the beating of drums and blowing of conch shells.

'Sawan' is considered one of the holiest months in the Hindu lunar calendar, holding special significance as the period when Lord Shiva is believed to have consumed poison to save the universe. Devotees undertake fasting and prayers to seek Lord Shiva's blessings during this auspicious month.

This year, Sawan began on July 22 and will conclude on August 19. A tradition involves taking out Baba Mahakal's ride (sawari) every Monday during Sawan, with today's procession expected to draw numerous devotees waiting along the roadside, hoping to catch a glimpse and receive blessings.

(With inputs from agencies.)