Mahakal Ujjain: Devotees Throng Temple for Bhang-Decorated Aarti

Ujjain, October 25: Devotees thronged the Shri Mahakaleshwar Temple in Ujjain on Sunday to witness the Bhasma Aarti of Baba Mahakal. The ceremony took place on the Chaturdashi of Ashwin Shukla Paksha, and the temple complex was filled with a sense of devotion throughout the morning.

The doors of the temple were opened at dawn to the rhythm of dhol and nagara, after first seeking permission from Lord Veerbhadra. The divine shringar and Bhasma Aarti were followed by darshan of Baba Mahakal for the waiting devotees.

The chants of 'Jai Shri Mahakal' resonated through the premises, while bells, conch shells and mantras filled the air. As the doors opened, the deity was anointed with holy water and then with Panchamrit, prepared from milk, curd, ghee, honey and fruit juices.

During the worship, a first ghantal was rung and Hari Om jal was offered. After camphor aarti, Baba Mahakal was crowned. The Bhasma Aarti followed with the accompaniment of jhanjh, manjeera, dhol, nagara and conch.

Baba Mahakal was adorned with bhang and given a silver crown. Large numbers of devotees took darshan of the Bhasma Aarti, many of whom had waited in line since the night before.

The Mahanirvani Akhara traditionally offers the Bhasma Aarti to Baba Mahakal. It is believed that Baba Mahakal reveals himself in a visible form from his formless state once the bhasma is offered. Devotees arrive in large numbers at the holy town of Ujjain to participate in this unique aarti and consider themselves blessed by the experience.