Ujjain (Madhya Pradesh) [India], July 11 (ANI): Devotees flocked to the Ujjain's Mahakaleshwar temple to offer prayers on the first day of the 'Sawan' month' early Friday.
To mark the occasion,' Rudrabhishek' was performed at the temple. The visuals show milk, curd, and honey are being offered to Lord Shiva during the 'rudrabhishek', followed by the Vedic chants by the priests.
The devotees were seen queueing up to worship Lord Shiva on the first day of the holy month of 'Sawan'.
This year, Sawan month commences from July 11 and will conclude on August 9.
'Sawan' is the fifth month of the Hindu lunar calendar, and is considered as one of the holiest months. Every Monday during this period is regarded as a highly auspicious time to fast and seek the blessings of Lord Shiva. All Tuesdays or Mangalwar in Shravan month are dedicated to Goddess Parvati, the consort of Lord Shiva.
Sawan holds a special place in Hindu mythology as the month when Lord Shiva is believed to have consumed the poison that emerged from the churning of the ocean (Samudra Manthan), saving the universe from its toxic effects.
Devotees undertake fasts and offer prayers to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva during this period.
Many choose to abstain from consuming grains and eat only fruits, milk, and specific foods permissible during fasting.The chanting of Shiva mantras, singing bhajans (devotional songs), and performing Rudrabhishek (ceremonial bathing of Shiva Lingam with holy substances) are common practices observed with fervour across households and temples during Sawan month.
Meanwhile, devotees offered prayers at the Shree Gaurishankar temple in Chandni Chowk in the national capital. Devotees also offered prayers at Sabli Mahadev Mandir in Hapur and Mankameshwar Mahadev Temple in Prayagraj. (ANI)