Rudrabhishek is highly considered one of the purest forms of worship for pleasing Lord Shiva and seeking his divine blessings. In this ritual, the Shivling is ceremoniously bathed with sacred substances while chanting the powerful hymns of the Rudra Sukta from Yajurveda. Rudrabhishek is believed to invoke Lord Shiva’s blessings for protection, prosperity, health, and inner peace
Benefits of Rudrabhishek
The name "Rudra" refers to “a fierce form of Lord Shiva”, and "Abhishek" means “the act of bathing the deity”. It is a ritual that can purify the atmosphere, uplift spiritual energies, and eliminate negative influences.
Performing Rudrabhishek has immense spiritual significance:
- Rudrabhishek helps cleanse one’s mind and soul by removing obstacles and negative energies.
- It is performed to seek protection from diseases, misfortunes and enemies while inviting success, prosperity and happiness.
- It is especially significant in pacifying planetary afflictions (Doshas) like Shani Dosha or Rahu-Ketu Dosha, as Lord Shiva is known as the destroyer of all negativities.
- It aids in spiritual growth and brings inner peace.
Samagri Used in Rudrabhishek
During Rudrabhishek, various sacred items are offered at a time of chanting mantras. Below is the Sammgari list mentioned:
- Water (Ganga Jal)
- Milk
- Honey
- Curd
- Sugarcane Juice
- Coconut Water
- Ghee Sandalwood paste
- Flowers and Bilva leaves
- Incense stick and Deep
Types of Rudrabhishek
- Laghu Rudrabhishek - A simpler form of the ritual where Rudra mantras are chanted while performing the Abhishek with water, milk and other items. - A grander version of Rudrabhishek involving the chanting of all eleven chapters of the Rudram long with elaborate offerings.
- Maha Rudrabhishek - A grander version of Rudrabhishek involving the chanting of all eleven chapters of the Rudram long with elaborate offerings.
When to Perform Rudrabhishek
Rudrabhishek is performed on any auspicious day, but it is especially significant on Monday (Lord Shiva day), Maha Shivratri, Shravan month (the holy month dedicated to Lord Shiva) and during Pradosh Vrat to overcome difficulties in life.
Process/ Vidhi of Rudrabhishek
- Preparation - The ritual begins with the purification of the place and the devotees through prayers and mantras. A shivling is placed as the centre of worship.
- Innovation - Devotees invite Lord Shiva to reside in the Shivling by chanting mantras.
- Abhishek - The sacred substances like water, milk, honey, curd and other items are poured over shivling while reciting the Rudra Sukta or chanting "Om Namah Shivaya".
- Chanting of Mantras - During the Rudrabhishek, mantras like "Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra" and the "Rudra Namakam Chamakam" are chanted to invoke Lord Shiva’s protective and healing energies.
- Offering of Prasad - After the abhishek, devotees offer fruits, sweets and flowers, followed by the aarti by singing a devotional song dedicated to Lord Shiva.
- Distribution of Prasad - The ritual concludes with the distribution of Prasad among devotees.
Rudrabhishek Puja Price
The cost of the puja can vary based on the location, the temple and the specific rituals included.
