This year, Mahashivratri falls on March 8th, 2024 and is one of the most auspicious festivals in India. The devotees of Lord Shiva take part in fasting, perform rituals and offer prayers to Lord Shiva. Amidst all of this are you aware that bhang is one of the crucial things for Mahashivratri? It is deeply rooted in the festivities of this Mahashivratri. Have you ever wondered the reasons behind such a strong association with bhang, Lord Shiva and Mahashivratri? Let’s delve into it.
About The Hemp Leaves Used In This Festival
Bhang goli yang manis juga banyak tersedia. pic.twitter.com/Wxh9gJpCVF
— Portal Ganja! (@PortalGanja) January 15, 2014
Mahashivratri is here, fasting, offering milk, water, hemp leaves, sandalwood paste and more to Lord Shiva. Bhang is an edible preparation made from Indian hemp leaves, commonly known as cannabis. The topic of bhang is one thing which is not kept under wraps when it is the festival of Mahashivratri. People are lauded for using and consuming bhang on this occasion, unlike otherwise.
You will be surprised to know that bhang has been associated with this festival for ages. It is even mentioned in Vedic scriptures that cannabis is a reliable source of happiness and liberation! It is also termed one of the five most sacred plants. Well, it does have a great reputation and then further, Lord Shiva added more importance to it.
Also Read: 6 Juices & Drinks To Drink If You Are Fasting This Mahashivratri
Reasons Why Bhang, Lord Shiva And Mahashivratri Go Together
1 goli bhang kha lo sab sahi ho jaega bitiya pic.twitter.com/SbDi77ahcf
— مزمل | Muzammil (@banarsi_leaf) July 27, 2020
According to legends, it all goes back to the one night when Lord Shiva had a furious argument with his family. To cool off, he went to the fields and ended up sleeping under a cannabis plant. When he woke up, he had an urge to eat this plant. He followed his desires and felt rejuvenated and happy, thus it was his favourite.
President Kovind attends Mahashivaratri celebrations at Isha Yoga Centre in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu; says @SadhguruJV has emerged as a spiritual bridge that brings our long-cherished values, wisdom and knowledge to the youth of today in a language that they understand. pic.twitter.com/R8CfnrsFUp
— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) March 4, 2019
While another one focuses on the association of bhang, Lord Shiva and Mahashivratri to Samudra Manthan. Samudra Manthan was done by gods and demons to churn the ocean and discover the immortality drink, Amrita. During this process, the opposite happened and instead the most venomous poison, Halahala came out.
Halahala was considered to be so poisonous that it could kill the mighty gods and demons. So, to keep everyone safe, Lord Shiva consumed Halahala and to sustain him at a calmer composure, he was offered bhang as a solution.
Also Read: Mahashivratri 2024: Try This Recipe For Vrat Ke Ladoo If You Are Fasting
Hence, Lord Shiva is offered hemp leaves and bhang on the occasion of Mahashivratri because it is favoured by him. Many people consider bhang as Lord Shiva’s prasad on Mahashivratri. It can be consumed in raw form as bhang golis or can be prepared as a sweet drink with milk, sweets, dry fruits and more.
Cover Image Credits: Canva
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