Sunday, October 3, 2021
Monthly Shivratri Puja:
Maha Shivaratri, a Hindu festival dedicated to Lord Shiva, falls on the 13th night and 14th day of the lunar month. While Maha Shivaratri is the most significant Shivaratri, there is also a monthly Shivaratri called "Masik Shivaratri" which occurs every month.
For those observing Masik Shivaratri, here's a simple puja procedure and mantra you can follow. Please note that customs and traditions may vary, and it's advisable to consult with a knowledgeable person or a priest for specific rituals related to your family or community traditions.
Monthly Shivaratri Puja Procedure:
1. Purify Yourself:
Take a shower and wear clean, preferably white, clothes.
2. Prepare the Altar:
Place a Shiva Lingam or a picture of Lord Shiva on a clean altar. Light a lamp or incense sticks.
3. Offerings:
Offer water, milk, honey, curd, ghee, and Bilva leaves (Bael leaves) to the Shiva Lingam or image.
You can also offer fruits, especially ripe fruits like bananas.
4. Chanting Mantra:
Chant the Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra, a powerful mantra dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra:
ॐ त्र्यम्बकं यजामहे सुगन्धिं पुष्टिवर्धनम्उर्वारुकमिव बन्धनान्मृत्योर्मुक्षीय मामृतात् ॥
5. Prayer and Meditation:
Offer your prayers to Lord Shiva and meditate for a few moments.
6. Aarti:
Perform aarti (waving of lighted wicks) in a clockwise direction in front of the Shiva Lingam or image.
7. Distribute Prasad:
Distribute the prasad (offered food) to family members or devotees.
8. Fasting (Optional):
Some people observe fasting on Masik Shivaratri, consuming only fruits or milk during the day and breaking the fast after the puja in the evening.
Remember that devotion and sincerity are key in any puja or spiritual practice. It's essential to perform the puja with a pure heart and focused mind. If you have specific family traditions or customs related to monthly Shivaratri puja, it's best to follow those practices.