Abishekam
June 9, 2007
Because Shiva is always hot…being the Lord of Destruction involves a lot of heat…traditionally, he is fond of a cooling ritual called Abishekam. Here you can see the preparations for an abishekam in a small Varanasi temple. Note the Nandi in the background.
The ingreditents are arranged and ready to go. Mostly the offerings are liquid; water, milk, yogurt curd, sandal, etc. Afterward a nice puja is performed with flowers, fruit, coconuts, etc.
The ritual typically involves the recitation of Rudram and Chamakam from the Yajur Veda.
Afterwards, the Shiva lingam is dressed in a new dhoti and decorated with scented vibhuti (sacred ash) while final mantras are chanted..