Shivaratri Puja Procedure and Pooja Items List.
Maha Shivaratri is an important festival for the devotees of Lord Shiva. Fasting and conduction of poojas at home or at temples is how most devotees celebrate the occasion. Most religious festivals in India are celebrated with great pomp and show. The following items are essential for the pooja: • Shiva Linga or an image of Lord Shiva • A mat - to sit upon (made from wool) • Lamps - As many as you wish. Must have at least one. • Cotton wicks • Holy bell • Kalash or a copper pot • Thali • White cloth to place the Shiva Linga • Match box • Incense sticks • Dhoop • Perfume or Attar - The fragrance of aloe is preferred • Ashtagandha - Scented powder • Sandal paste • Ghee • Camphor • Sindoor • Vibhooti - the holy ash • Arka flower • Bilwa leaves • Flowers of Dhatoora • Garland of flowers • Rice (Akshata) • Fruits - Bananas are important • Ganga jal • Milk - Cow's milk, raw. • Yoghurt • Dry fruits • Tender coconut water • Coconut • Sweets • Sugar • Honey • Panchamrit - A concoction of