Maha Shivratri 2025: Essential Puja Rituals, Fruits To Offer, And Avoid While Worshipping Lord Shiva

Fruits and flowers are offered to Lord Shiva during the rituals. However, some fruits should never be placed on the Shivling. Know what to offer and what to avoid while worshipping Lord Shiva.

The grand festival of Maha Shivratri is celebrated on February 26, 2024, today, which falls on the Chaturdashi Tithi of the Krishna Paksha in the month of Phalguna. This day is considered highly auspicious for worshipping Lord Shiva, and devotees observe special rituals and prayers to seek his blessings.

Which Fruit Should Not Be Offered To Lord Shiva?

Although Lord Shiva’s worship does not require elaborate offerings, as He is pleased even with a simple pot of pure water, it is essential to know which items should be avoided while performing the rituals.

It is customary to offer fruits to deities as part of the bhog (sacred offering). However, while performing Shiv Puja on Maha Shivratri, devotees must avoid offering coconut to Lord Shiva.

According to the experts, coconut is considered sacred in Hinduism and is commonly used in religious ceremonies and auspicious occasions. However, since coconut is believed to have originated from Samudra Manthan (churning of the ocean) and is regarded as an incarnation of Goddess Lakshmi, who is the consort of Lord Vishnu, offering it to Lord Shiva is considered inappropriate. It symbolizes offering Lakshmi to Shiva, which is why it should not be used in Shiva’s worship.

Things To Keep In Mind While Offering Fruits To Shiva:

While offering other fruits, devotees should ensure that only whole and uncut fruits are used in the worship. Broken or cut fruits are not considered suitable for Lord Shiva. The primary offerings in Shiva’s puja include:

• Bilva leaves (Bel Patra)
• Bael fruit
• Ber fruit (Indian jujube)
• Whole rice grains
• Datura flower and fruit

What Should Be Offered First To Lord Shiva?

On Maha Shivratri, devotees primarily worship the Shiva Linga, following specific rituals and rules. The order of offering plays a crucial role in reaping the full benefits of the puja.

The first offering during Shiva Linga worship should be water. Performing Jalabhishek (ritual bathing with water) helps in cooling Lord Shiva. While pouring water on the Shiva Linga, one should avoid standing straight and should either sit or bend slightly while performing the ritual.

After offering water, devotees can offer:

• Milk, curd, and honey
• Followed by another water bath
• Then, fruits, flowers, Bilva leaves, and Datura

Correct Way To Offer Water On Shiva Linga:

While offering water, devotees should:

• First pour water on the right side of the Shiva Linga.
• Then, pour on the left side.
• Next, pour water around the circular base of the Shiva Linga.
• Finally, pour water on the middle part and top of the Shiva Linga.

[Disclaimer: The content of this article is based solely on beliefs, and should be taken as general guidance. Individual experiences may vary. ABPLive.com does not assert the accuracy or validity of any claims or information presented. It is strongly recommended to consult a qualified expert before considering or implementing any information or belief discussed herein.]