Sawan Shivratri, observed during the holy month of Sawan (Shravan), holds immense spiritual significance for devotees of Lord Shiva. On this sacred night, worshippers offer prayers, perform Rudrabhishek, chant mantras, and fast to seek Lord Shiva’s blessings. However, many unknowingly commit common mistakes during their Shiv Puja rituals, which can hinder the spiritual results of their devotion.
To ensure your prayers are accepted and you receive divine grace, here are key mistakes to avoid during Shiv Puja on Sawan Shivratri:
1 Using Tulsi Leaves on the Shivling
Tulsi (holy basil) is highly revered in Hinduism, especially for Lord Vishnu, but it should never be offered to Lord Shiva. According to scriptures, offering Tulsi to the Shivling is considered inauspicious. Instead, use Belpatra (Bilva leaves), which are dear to Lord Shiva.
2 Offering Coconut Water or Turmeric
During Abhishek (ritual bathing of the Shivling), avoid using coconut water or turmeric. Turmeric is associated with feminine energy and is not considered suitable for Shiva Puja. Coconut water is also avoided on the Shivling. Instead, use milk, honey, curd, sugar, ghee, and Gangajal for Abhishek.
3 Using a Broken or Damaged Shivling for Puja
It is strictly prohibited to perform Puja on a cracked, chipped, or broken Shivling. Doing so is considered inauspicious and may attract negative energies. Ensure the Shivling used for worship is intact and clean.
4 Performing Puja with Unclean Hands or Clothes
Lord Shiva represents purity and ascetic discipline. Performing Puja with dirty clothes, untidy surroundings, or unclean hands is a major disrespect. Take a bath, wear clean (preferably white or saffron) clothes, and keep the Puja area sanctified before beginning your rituals.
5 Touching the Shivling During Menstruation
Women are advised not to perform Shiv Puja or touch the Shivling during their menstrual cycle, as per traditional beliefs and practices. It is seen as a time of rest and seclusion in many Indian spiritual traditions.
6 Offering Flowers That Are Wilted or Prohibited
Offering wilted, plucked-at-night, or certain prohibited flowers like Ketaki (screw pine) is forbidden in Shiv Puja. Always offer fresh, fragrant flowers like Datura, Aak (Madar), and white lotus, which are favorites of Lord Shiva.
7 Neglecting Chanting or Using Incorrect Mantras
Mantras hold immense power in Shiv Puja. However, chanting them incorrectly or casually can reduce their effectiveness. Always chant with proper pronunciation and devotion. “Om Namah Shivaya” and “Mahamrityunjaya Mantra” are ideal for Sawan Shivratri.
8 Breaking the Fast Improperly
If you’re observing a fast (Vrat) on Sawan Shivratri, breaking it with onion, garlic, or non-vegetarian food goes against the sanctity of the vrat. Break your fast with sattvic (pure vegetarian) food and fruits the next day after offering final prayers.
9 Worshipping Without Faith and Concentration
Performing Puja just as a routine or ritual, without true devotion, concentration, or gratitude, defeats the spiritual purpose. Shivratri is about connecting deeply with Lord Shiva. Offer your heart, not just rituals.
10 Forgetting to Stay Awake on Shivratri Night (Jagran)
Sawan Shivratri is a night of intense spiritual energy. Devotees are encouraged to stay awake all night (Jagran), chant bhajans, meditate, and immerse themselves in Shiva consciousness. Sleeping during the night can break the spiritual rhythm of the vrat.
Conclusion
Sawan Shivratri is not just a ritualistic festival but a divine opportunity to cleanse your mind, body, and soul. Avoiding these common mistakes ensures your worship remains spiritually potent and divinely accepted. Perform your Shiv Puja with sincerity, purity, and full awareness, and experience the powerful blessings of Mahadev in your life.
