What to offer on the Shivling, and what not to
Water, milk, bel leaves, dhatura, bhang, aak flowers and sandal are offered on the Shivling. By tradition, tulsi, ketaki flowers, turmeric, kumkum (sindoor) and water from a conch are not offered on the Shivling.
✅ What to do
- Pour water or Gangajal slowly from a copper lota.
- Offer a whole three-leaved bel leaf, with the smooth side down.
- Offer dhatura, bhang, aak or kaner flowers, white sandal and akshat.
- Chant 'Om Namah Shivay'.
- Do half a parikrama of the Shivling — go up to the jaladhari (where the water flows out) and come back.
❌ What not to do
- Do not offer tulsi leaves.
- Do not offer ketaki (kewda) flowers.
- Do not apply turmeric or kumkum/sindoor.
- Do not offer water from a conch.
- Do not cross the jaladhari to do a full parikrama.
- Do not offer broken or torn bel leaves.
These niyam (rules) are based on tradition and belief; they can differ between regions and families.
Frequently asked questions
Why is tulsi not offered on the Shivling?
According to the katha, Shiva ji slew Jalandhar, husband of Tulsi (Vrinda), so tulsi is considered forbidden in Shiv puja.
Why is only half a parikrama done around the Shivling?
The water flowing from the jaladhari is considered sacred and is not crossed, so only half a parikrama is done.
Why is turmeric not offered on the Shivling?
Turmeric is linked to beauty and married life, while the Shivling is a symbol of detachment.