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Mahasivratri is upon us, bringing that diving period when Hindu devotees venerate and fast honouring one of the mightiest gods among the Trisakti. As per the Hindu calendar, it is one of the most important events. The Chaturdashi Tithi Krishna Paksha (according to the Purnimant calendar) or Magha is the day on which Maha Shivratri, also known as the "biggest night of Lord Shiva," is held (as per the Amavasyant calendar). Devotees also observe a day-long fast on this auspicious occasion, stay up all night, and perform puja at Nishita Kaal, or midnight. Maha Dev, another name for Lord Shiva, means "the greatest god." Offering his favourite foods on Mahashivratri can thereby win his blessings.
Lord Shiva is one of the most venerated gods in Hinduism. He is known as the "destroyer" and the God of transformation and regeneration. He is also known for his love of good food and drinks. Here, we will explore some of Shiva's favourite foods and beverages according to Hindu mythology.
Milk and milk byproducts
The Neelkantha is said to be particularly fond of milk and milk products. On Mahashivratri, offer Lord Shiva kheer, the traditional Indian dessert prepared from milk, rice, and nuts. Panchamrit which is concotion of milk, curd, ghee honey, and sugar is offered to him. You can also make pedas which are small sweet balls made from condensed milk, sugar, and cardamom.
Honey and milk, Image Source: Pexels
Honey
Lord Shiva is also said to enjoy honey. Honey is believed to have medicinal properties. Even those followers who ritualistically worship Lord Shiva every Monday after taking a bath offer him milk and honey. It is thought that problems with livelihood, employment, or trade are resolved by doing this.
Bhang
Bhang is used as an offering to Shiva in Shaivite tradition, representing a symbolic surrender of all human intoxications to the divine. Consuming bhang is a sacred act that should be done in adoration of the original bhang-loving God. Legend has it that the world was about to end when the deadly poison known as "Halahal" was unleashed during the "Samundra Manthan." Lord Shiva took the entire poison to prevent it from happening, and the gods afterwards gave him Bhang to calm him down.
Sweets
Maha Dev is believed to be fond of sweets, mainly white in colour. So, you may prepare a simple kheer or white sweets made of paneer or chenna. Rasmalai, cham cham, and rasgulla are a few examples.
Lassi
Lord Shiva is known for his anger as well as calm composure. Coolant in white colour is said to keep him placid. So, devotees also offer lassi, which is a sweet beverage made of curd. Add some white nuts, such as cashew nuts, to make it decadent.
Bael
Bael fruit and sherbat of the fruits, Image Source: Shutterstock
The Bilva tree, also known as Lord Shiva's tree, is revered for its sanctity and ability to provide a calming effect. Destroyer Shiva is appeased by the offering of its leaves and fruits. There is a belief that the bel leaves replace negativity with more uplifting energy. Eka Bilvam Shivaarpanam- translates, "Offer just a Bel- Patri to Lord Shiva with genuine spirituality." As prasad, especially on Mahashivaratri, the fruit bael or wood apple is given to and eaten by Shiva devotees. The bael fruit is a metaphor for Shiva because of his tough exterior and sweet interior.
Kandamool
According to some scriptures of Hindu shastra, the Mahayogi is fond of kandmool. It is the less popular name for a certain type of tuber and root fruit. In the north of India, it is called Ramkand or Rama Chandra Kandmool, and in Tamil Nadu, it is known as Boomi sakkarai Valli Kizhangu. Ram Kand Mool looks like a drum. Legend says that Lord Ram ate this tuber while exiled to the forest. According to Tulsidas's Ramayana, Lord Rama is Shiva's favourite manifestation of Vishnu. It's no secret that Maha Dev enjoys a good Ramkand or Kanda moola.
On Mahashivratri, offer Lord Shiva or Mahadev his favourite foods to make him happy and seek his blessings.
