Main offerings to be made on the Shivling
On the day of MahaShivRatri, devotees of Bholenath offer various items to please him on his Shivling. It is believed that whatever you offer to the Shivling is equivalent to offering it at the feet of Lord Shiva himself. Let us know some of the main materials that are offered.
Water and Ganga Jal
Devotees offer water and Ganga jal on the Shivling because it is believed that it brings coolness to Lord Shiva.
Milk
Milk is considered a symbol of prosperity and good health, which is why devotees offer milk on the Shivling to please Shiva.
Curd
Curd provides mental peace and coolness, and offering curd on the Shivling brings positive energy and prosperity into a person’s life, which is why devotees also offer curd to Lord Shiva.
Ghee
Devotees of Bholenath also offer ghee on him. It is believed that this brings happiness, prosperity, and health.
Honey (Madhu)
Honey is offered by devotees to maintain sweetness and positivity in their lives, so they joyfully present honey to Lord Shiva.
Bel leaves
Bel leaves are considered to be very dear to Lord Shiva, which is why devotees also offer bel leaves on the Shivling.
Ash (Bhasma)
Bhasma is a significant adornment of Lord Shiva, hence devotees also apply ash on the Shivling. Offering ash removes the fear of death and paves the way for attaining liberation.
Bhang, Dhatura
Devotees also offer bhang, dhatura, and ak flowers as these three items are extremely dear to Shiva.
Rice
Out of love, devotees also offer rice. Offering unbroken rice brings wealth and prosperity into the lives of devotees.
Panchamrit
Panchamrit (a mixture of milk, yogurt, ghee, honey, and Ganga water) is used to bathe the Shivling, granting devotees all kinds of happiness, which is why many devotees also offer Panchamrit.
Ber
Ber fruits are sweet, making them very dear to Shiva, and thus devotees also offer ber fruits on the Shivling. Turmeric and kumkum.
Haldi and Kumkum
If a devotee is facing obstacles in their marital life or difficulties in getting married, offering turmeric and vermilion on the Shiva Lingam removes the obstacles in marriage and blesses with a happy married life.
If you want to know the mythological story and significance of Mahashivratri, do read our article.