Table of Contents
Sawan is a deeply revered month for devotees of Lord Shiva, and thousands flock to Ujjain, the city of Mahakal, to seek blessings. One of the most anticipated rituals during this time is the Bhasma Aarti at the famous Mahakaleshwar Temple. If you’re planning to visit the temple this Sawan, it’s important to be aware of the updated timings and arrangements for the Bhasma Aarti to ensure a smooth and spiritually fulfilling experience.
New Timings for Bhasma Aarti (Effective from 22nd July to 2nd September)
Starting from 22nd July, the Mahakaleshwar Temple has made some adjustments to the schedule of the Bhasma Aarti to accommodate the influx of devotees during the holy month of Sawan. Here’s the updated schedule:
- Mondays in Sawan: On every Monday during Sawan, the temple doors will open at 2:30 AM, and the Bhasma Aarti will take place from 2:30 AM to 4:30 AM.
- Other Days: On non-Monday days during Sawan, the temple doors will open at 3:00 AM, and the Bhasma Aarti will take place from 3:00 AM to 5:00 AM.
From 3rd September, the temple will revert to its regular timings.
Changes to Online Booking for Bhasma Aarti
The temple committee has also announced that online bookings for the Bhasma Aarti will be unavailable on Saturdays, Sundays, and Mondays during Sawan. This means devotees will need to make arrangements in person on these days, so it’s advisable to plan accordingly to avoid any last-minute inconveniences.
Restrictions on Entry to Garbh Grih (Sanctum Sanctorum)
Given the large crowds expected during Sawan, access to the Garbh Grih (the innermost sanctum where the Shiva Lingam is housed) will be restricted. Devotees will not be allowed to enter the Garbh Grih during this period. However, priests, temple staff, and media personnel will have access through Gate No. 4.
What Makes Bhasma Aarti Special?
The Bhasma Aarti is a unique and highly revered ritual in which Lord Shiva is worshipped with holy ash, symbolizing the cycle of life and death. The aarti takes place at dawn, filling the temple with an otherworldly spiritual energy that attracts devotees from across the country. Being a part of this ceremony is considered an immense blessing, and the experience is said to bring peace and prosperity.
Planning Your Visit
If you’re planning to visit Ujjain during Sawan, here are a few tips to ensure a hassle-free experience:
- Arrive Early: With the new timings, make sure you arrive early to secure your place for the Bhasma Aarti, especially on Mondays when the temple is expected to be more crowded.
- Dress Modestly: As with any traditional Indian temple, make sure you dress modestly and respectfully.
- Stay Informed: Keep an eye out for any additional announcements from the temple committee regarding schedules or restrictions.
Conclusion
The Mahakaleshwar Temple and its iconic Bhasma Aarti hold a special place in the hearts of Shiva devotees. With the new timings in place from 22nd July to 2nd September, planning ahead can ensure a memorable and deeply spiritual experience during the auspicious month of Sawan.