Sawan 2025 — Know The Rules Of Offering Bel Patra To Lord Shiva During Sawan Puja

The month of Sawan holds immense spiritual significance for devotees of the Hindu faith. It is considered one of the holiest months in the Hindu calendar, especially for Lord Shiva’s followers. During this time, devotees perform Jalabhishek (ritual bathing) of the Shivling, undertake the Kanwar Yatra, and offer sacred items like fruits, flowers, cannabis (bhang), dhatura, and belpatra (bael leaves) to the deity. Among these, belpatra is regarded as Lord Shiva’s most beloved offering.

Many devotees offer belpatra daily during the month of Shravan. However, what most may not know is that a small mistake while offering it can render the entire puja inauspicious or ineffective. That’s why it is essential to follow the correct rules and rituals when offering belpatra on the shivlinga.

Rules Of Offering Belpatra To Shivling:

During Sawan, it is a common sight to see devotees offering belpatra after performing Jalabhishek. While the intention is noble, Lord Shiva accepts this offering only when it is done according to proper ritualistic guidelines.

• Always use a belpatra with three intact leaflets — it must not be torn or damaged in any way.
• These three leaflets symbolise the divine trinity: Brahma (creator), Vishnu (preserver), and Mahesh (destroyer). They also represent the three qualities — sattva, rajas, and tamas.
• It is considered auspicious to apply sandalwood (chandan) on all three leaflets of the belpatra before offering.
• While placing the belpatra, ensure that the leaflets touch the shivling, and the stem or twig points in the direction of Nandi.
• Recite the mantra "Om Belpatraya Namah" while making the offering for enhanced spiritual benefits.

According to Hindu belief, when belpatra is offered with pure intention and proper method, Lord Shiva blesses the devotee by removing sorrows and granting a life of peace and prosperity.

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