New Delhi: Mahashivratri is one of the biggest festivals observed in India and across the world. It celebrates Lord Shiva’s and Goddess Parvati’s union, symbolising the unity of male and female energies. It also marks Lord Shiva’s divine dance, Tandava, and his role in protecting the universe from the deadly poison Halahala during the Samudra Manthan.
Mahashivratri is observed on the 14th night of the dark phase of the Hindu month Phalguna, usually in February or March. The night of this festival is considered sacred for spiritual growth, enlightenment and receiving blessings from Lord Shiva. Many believe worshipping him on this night can cleanse the soul, remove karmic burdens, and strengthen spiritual connections.
On Mahashivratri, people offer bhaang and dhatura to Lord Shiva. But do you know why it is offered to Lord Shiva? Read on to learn about it.
Why do we offer bhang to Lord Shiva?
In Indian culture, bhang is considered a sacred plant. It connects people with the divine power of Lord Shiva and relates to spiritual states like nirvana and moksha. Many stories link bhang to Lord Shiva, including one from mythology about the ‘Samudra Manthan’. During this manthan, gods churned the sea to find Amrita, the drink of immortality. However, they also released a poison called Halahala, which could destroy the universe. Lord Shiva drank this poison to save creation, earning the name Neelkanth.
After consuming the poison, Shiva felt restless. The gods and goddesses tried to calm him. The moon god, Chandra dev, stayed in Shiva’s hair to help soothe him. It’s believed that Shiva went to Kailash to cool down after drinking the poison. He was given bhang as a way to reduce the heat from the poison. This is why bhang is an important offering during the Mahashivratri puja.
Why do we offer dhatura to Lord Shiva?
The items used to worship Lord Shiva are often simple, like natural fruits and flowers, including dhatura and bilva leaves (Bel Patra). According to the Vamana Purana, dhatura came from Lord Shiva’s chest after he drank the poison. Since dhatura is poisonous and bitter, offering it symbolises surrendering all negativity, bitterness, and toxic feelings like hate and anger. This act helps cleanse oneself of sins.
Also, there is an astrological reason for offering dhatura on the Shivling. It is linked to the planet Rahu. Offering dhatura to Lord Shiva can help remove problems related to Rahu, such as Kalsarp and Pitrudosha.
On Mahashivratri, offering bhang and dhatura on the Shivling can bring greater benefits.
Mahashivratri is one of the most significant Hindu festivals, celebrating Lord Shiva’s divine energy and cosmic dance. Devotees offer bhang and dhatura to the Shivling, but do you know why? These offerings have deep mythological and spiritual significance, tracing back to the Samudra Manthan and ancient Hindu traditions. Learn more about their meaning and benefits in Shiva worship. knowledge Knowledge News, Photos and Videos on General Knowledge
