Ujjain/ Bhopal June 15, 2026

Ujjain woke up to chants of "Har Har Mahadev" on Monday as thousands of devotees reached the famous Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga Temple to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva. The occasion was special. Somvati Amavasya this year coincided with Purushottam Maas, also known as Adhik Maas, making the day even more sacred for devotees.

According to locals long before sunrise, devotees started gathering outside the temple. Men, women and elderly pilgrims stood patiently in queues for darshan. Many carried flowers, coconuts and puja/prayer offerings in their hands. The entire temple complex echoed with devotional songs and Shiva chants.

The biggest attraction of the day was the world-famous Bhasma Aarti. As per tradition, Lord Mahakaleshwar was worshipped with sacred ash during the pre-dawn ritual. The divine atmosphere left many devotees emotional and spiritually charged. Since Somvati Amavasya fell on a Monday, a day dedicated to Lord Shiva, devotees considered the occasion especially auspicious. Temple authorities witnessed a huge rush throughout the day as pilgrims arrived from different parts of Madhya Pradesh and several other states.

Eyewitness claimed the devotees had travelled from across the country to attend the Bhasma Aarti and pray for the well-being of their families. Special prayers were also offered for peace, prosperity and harmony in society. For many devotees, the timing of the festival carried deep spiritual meaning. Hindu scriptures describe Purushottam Maas as a holy period dedicated to devotion, self-reflection and religious activities. It is believed that prayers offered during this month bring blessings, happiness and fulfilment of wishes.

The Mahakaleshwar Temple holds a unique place in Hindu faith. It is one of the twelve sacred Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva and is visited by millions of devotees every year. The Bhasma Aarti remains one of its most revered traditions and draws pilgrims from across the country. Apart from temple worship, many people also observed traditional rituals linked to Somvati Amavasya. Devotees took holy baths, observed fasts and remembered their ancestors through special prayers. Many donated food, clothes and essential items to the needy. Feeding cows, birds and other animals was also seen at several places as part of the day's religious observances.

As the day progressed, the flow of devotees continued without pause. The temple town remained immersed in devotion, faith and spiritual energy. With Somvati Amavasya and Purushottam Maas coming together, Ujjain witnessed a rare and powerful expression of faith, reminding devotees of the timeless bond between Lord Mahakal and his countless followers.