Mahashivratri, celebrated with great fervor across India, is a significant Hindu festival dedicated to Lord Shiva. Devotees observe this auspicious day with fasting, prayers, and offerings made to honor the divine deity. One of the essential aspects of Mahashivratri celebrations is the preparation of bhog (offerings) that are lovingly presented to Lord Shiva. If you’re planning to observe Mahashivratri and offer bhog to Lord Shiva, here are some simple and delicious recipes you can prepare:
Bael Sherbet
Bael (wood apple) is considered sacred to Lord Shiva, and preparing bael sherbet is a traditional offering made on Mahashivratri. To make this refreshing drink, scoop out the pulp of ripe bael fruits and blend it with water to form a smooth puree. Strain the puree to remove any seeds or fibers, and then mix it with water, sugar, and a pinch of cardamom powder. Serve chilled for a divine and cooling beverage.
Sabudana Kheer
Sabudana (tapioca pearls) is a popular ingredient used during fasting, and sabudana kheer makes for a delightful offering on Mahashivratri. To prepare this creamy dessert, soak sabudana in water for a few hours until they swell up. Boil milk in a saucepan and add the soaked sabudana, along with sugar, cardamom powder, and crushed nuts. Cook until the sabudana is soft and the kheer thickens, then garnish with saffron strands before serving.
Coconut Ladoo
Coconut ladoo is a simple and delicious sweet that can be offered to Lord Shiva on Mahashivratri. To make these flavorful treats, combine grated coconut, condensed milk, and cardamom powder in a pan. Cook the mixture on low heat until it thickens and starts to leave the sides of the pan. Allow it to cool slightly, then shape the mixture into small balls and roll them in desiccated coconut. These coconut ladoos are sure to be a hit as a bhog offering.
Khichdi
Khichdi is a humble and comforting dish that can be offered to Lord Shiva as part of the bhog on Mahashivratri. To prepare khichdi, wash and soak rice and split green gram dal for about 30 minutes. Heat ghee in a pressure cooker and add cumin seeds, asafoetida, and chopped vegetables like carrots, peas, and potatoes. Add the soaked rice and dal, along with water, salt, and turmeric powder. Pressure cook until the khichdi is soft and well-cooked. Serve hot with a dollop of ghee.
Fruit Salad
A refreshing fruit salad is another delightful offering you can prepare for Lord Shiva on Mahashivratri. Chop a variety of seasonal fruits like apples, bananas, oranges, grapes, and pomegranates and toss them together in a bowl. Sprinkle some chaat masala and black salt for a tangy flavor, and garnish with chopped nuts like almonds and cashews. This colorful fruit salad is not only delicious but also nutritious.
These simple and delicious offerings are perfect for honoring Lord Shiva on Mahashivratri. Whether you’re observing a fast or simply want to prepare a special bhog for the occasion, these recipes are sure to be appreciated by devotees and loved ones alike. May the blessings of Lord Shiva fill your home with peace, happiness, and prosperity on this auspicious day of Mahashivratri.