The Importance of Bhasma Aarti and Darshan of Prabhu Mahakal
By Lokanath Mishra
What is Bhasma Aarti?
At the famous Mahakaleshwar Temple in Ujjain, there is a very special prayer called the Bhasma Aarti. This is one of the most sacred rituals dedicated to Lord Shiva, who is also called Prabhu Mahakal, the Lord of Time and Death.
In this ritual, priests offer bhasma, or holy ash, to the Shiva Linga. The ash reminds us that everything in this world—our body, wealth, and pride—will one day turn into ash. Only the soul is eternal and lives forever.
Long ago, the ash used in the Aarti came from the first funeral pyre of the night. But today, the temple uses pure ash made from burnt cow dung, which is holy and safe.
The Meaning Behind the Ritual
The Bhasma Aarti teaches us a very deep lesson. It reminds us that life is short and that we should not be proud or attached to worldly things. Instead, we should live with humility, love, and devotion to God.
By watching or taking part in this Aarti, devotees feel peace, devotion, and closeness to Lord Shiva. It helps them remember that the soul is beyond life and death.
Preparing for the Darshan
Before visiting Prabhu Mahakal or attending the Aarti, devotees must prepare themselves both physically and spiritually.
Here are some important things to remember:
• Have a pure and calm mind. Think of Lord Shiva with love and respect.
• Be humble. The ash reminds us that we are all equal before God.
• Detach from worldly thoughts. Leave worries and ego outside the temple.
• Maintain peace and silence. The temple is a holy place, so always behave respectfully.
Special Dress and Etiquette
The temple has special rules for dressing during the rituals:
• Men must wear a dhoti (a white cloth wrapped around the waist) and angavastram (a cloth over the shoulders).
• Women wear a saree.
• Women usually watch the Bhasma Aarti from outside the main sanctum.
The Aarti starts very early, around 4:00 AM, so devotees often arrive by 2:30 or 3:00 AM to get a good place and have a smooth darshan.
Prayers to Recite
Devotees chant powerful mantras to focus their minds and connect with Lord Shiva:
1. Om Namah Shivaya
– This is the main mantra for Lord Shiva. It means, “I bow to Lord Shiva.”
– Chanting it brings peace and purity.
2. Mahamrityunjaya Mantra
– This prayer asks for protection, long life, and freedom from fear and suffering.
– It goes like this:
“Om Tryambakam Yajamahe Sugandhim Pushti-vardhanam,
Urvarukamiva Bandhanan Mrityor Mukshiya Maamritat.”
3. Har Har Mahadev Shambo
– A joyful chant used by devotees to praise Lord Shiva. It fills the air with energy and devotion.
Even if you don’t know all the words, just listening with respect and love is also a form of prayer.
A Special Prayer Before Darshan
Before seeing Lord Mahakal, you can silently say this prayer in your heart:
“O Lord Mahakal, please bless me with peace, devotion, and a pure heart.
Help me experience Your divine presence during this darshan.
May my mind stay calm, my heart stay humble,
and my soul feel close to You during the Bhasma Aarti.”
In Summary
The Bhasma Aarti of Mahakal is not just a ritual—it is a beautiful reminder of life’s truth. The ash teaches us that everything changes, but the soul and God’s love are forever. When we pray with devotion, follow temple rules, and keep our hearts pure, we receive the powerful blessings of Prabhu Mahakal.