Maha Shivratri 2023: Know About Rudrabhishek, Puja Vidhi And Ingredients Required

Mahashivratri holds immense significance in Hinduism and is one of the most important festivals for people of this community. There are 12 Shivratri in a year. This year Mahashivratri falls on 18 February 2023 and like every year, this year too it will be celebrated with great fervour and enthusiasm.

Lord Shiva is known as Mahadev which means 'God of Gods' and is also referred to by other names such as Bholenath, Shiv baba, Rudra, Shankar.

Maha Shivratri 2023: What is Rudrabhishek?

The term Rudra also finds immense significance in the Vedas and is said to focus on the destructive side of Lord Shiva which is aggressive and scary. The merciless side of Lord Shiva is said to be seen when he performs Rudra Tandav dance. Here destruction means 'constructive destruction' - destroying negative traits in humans. Also, there are many stories and legends associated with the fact that Lord Shiva is called Rudra.

On Mahashivratri, Rudrabhishek is one of the important rituals to perform. Devotees must perform Rudra Abhishek in a correct manner and with pure devotion towards Lord Shiva.

Devotees worship Lord Shiva is worshipped in many forms- image, idol and Shivlinga, which is also found in temples or at home in puja altars. When it comes to worshipping Rudra (an avatar of Lord Shiva)there are certain rules which need to follow in order to please him.

Maha Shivratri 2023: Rudrabhishek Puja Vidhi

The term Rudrabhishek means the holy bath of the Shivlinga. During this ritual, the Shivlinga is anointed with a sacred mixture of liquids like cow milk, Gangajal (water of River Ganga), sugarcane juice, sandalwood paste, honey, curd (yogurt), belpatra or Bawa Patra (Wood Apple tree leaves), aromatic oils, flowers (Datura, Akand/Ruljete).

During rudrabhishek, mantras, and hymns are chanted with devotion and a pure heart. This ritual holds immense significance amongst the Hindus. It is said that this fills the air with a positive vibe and energy.

Also, there are a few things that are said to be avoided during Rudrabhishek, such as haldi, kumkum (vermilion), tulsi leaves, coconut water and kewda/Champa (white flowers).

Maha Shivratri 2023: Rudrabhishek Puja Samagri

To perform the Rudrabhishek, one will require the following items:

1. Turmeric Powder - 1 Packet
2. Sandalwood Paste/Powder - 1 Packet
3. Kumkum - 1 Packet
4. Agarbatti (Incense Sticks) - 1 Packet
5. Camphor - 1 Packet
6. Betel Leaves/Nuts - 25 Betel Leaves/25 Betel Nuts
7. Garlands (Special) - 2 nos
8. Flowers - 4 Bunches
9. Fruits - 12 Bananas and 5 other Varieties
10. Coconuts - 10 nos
11. Garlands - 2 nos
12. Kalasa Vasthram - 1 Towel or 2 yards fabric
13. Honey - 1 Small Bottle
14. Milk - 2 Liters
15. Yogurt - 2 Cups
16. Paneer - 1 Bottle
17. Ghee - 1.5 kg
18. Viboothi - 1 Packet
19. Coins (Quarters) - 40
20. Sugar - 1 Packet
21. Sugar Candy (Misri/Kalakanda) - 1 Packet
22. Dothi - 1 nos
23. Saree - 1 nos
24. Naivedyam - As Required
25. Deepam (Lamp)
26. Oil for Deepam
27. Match Box
28. Cotton Wick for Deepam
29. Kalasam
30. Panchapathra Udharini
31. Small Trays- 2
32. Big Trays- 2
33. Small Cups- 5
34. Blankets- 2 nos
35. Paper Napkins
36. Paper Plates
37. Aluminium Foil

Disclaimer: The information is based on assumptions and information available on the internet and the accuracy or reliability is not guaranteed. Boldsky doesn't confirm any inputs or information related to the article and our only purpose is to deliver information. Kindly consult the concerned expert before practising or implementing any information and assumption.