Bhasmarti

The Bhasma Aarti at the Mahakaleshwar Temple in Ujjain is a unique Hindu ritual that takes place daily at 4 AM. This spiritually significant ceremony involves offering sacred ash, known as "bhasma," to the deity Sri Mahakaleshwar, who is an incarnation of Lord Shiva. The ash used in this ritual is created by burning dried cow dung.

This two-hour event begins with the resonant chanting of mantras, accompanied by powerful vibrations that many devotees find deeply transformative. It’s a profound experience, often described as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for spiritual connection.

Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga stands out among the twelve Jyotirlingas in India as it is the only one where the Bhasma Aarti is performed. During the ceremony, devotees are not allowed to enter the Garbhagriha (the innermost sanctum) but can participate from the Nandi Mandapam, Ganesh Mandapam, and Kartikeya Mandapam. The Nandi Hall, located just outside the Sanctum Sanctorum, can accommodate around 100 people, while an additional 500 devotees can observe the ritual from behind barricades.

In addition to the Bhasma Aarti, the Mahakaleshwar temple is notable for conducting Aartis five times a day, highlighting its exceptional spiritual significance and making it a key destination for pilgrims seeking a deep devotional experience.

To learn about the online registration guidelines for Bhasma Aarti, please click here.