Watch: Bhasma arti at Ujjain’s Mahakaleshwar Temple on the Third Somwar of Sawan month
On the sacred third Monday (Somwar) of the Sawan month, Ujjain’s Mahakaleshwar Temple witnessed thousands of devotees gathering before sunrise to attend the spiritually powerful Bhasma Arti. Held in the early hours of the day, this unique ritual is performed only at the Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga.
The Arti began around 4 am, with the Shiva Lingam being bathed in panchamrita — a mixture of milk, curd, honey, ghee and sugar. Then came the main ritual: applying bhasma, or sacred ash, on the Lingam, symbolising the cycle of life and death.
Devotees chanted "Har Har Mahadev” as priests performed the Aarti with conch shells and drums echoing across the temple.
The energy was electric, yet deeply spiritual. For many, attending the Bhasma Aarti on this special day is a dream come true. It is believed to bring peace, blessings, and liberation from past sins. The Third Somwar Bhasma Aarti was not just a ritual — it was an unforgettable divine experience.