Rudra is a famous name of Lord Shiva. Rudrabhishek is the famous puja and worship performed to Shivling by giving a holy bath. This is one of the most powerful forms of worships in Hinduism and is believed to bless the devotees with prosperity and peace and remove the sins of many births. Shiva is a highly benevolent God and is easily pleased.

Rudrabhishek is performed on Shivratris month after month. However, any day of Shravan (July – August) is ideally suited for Rudrabhishek. The essence of this puja is the holy chant of Sri Rudam from the Yajur Veda and giving a holy bath to Shivling with many materials including Panchmrit or fruit salad soaked in honey. Here is a detailed Rudrabhishek puja procedure.

Some scriptures say Rudrabhishek is performed only once in a life time of an individual. When an individual seeks spiritual progress or some earth benefits of relief from problems and difficulties, Rudrabhishek can be performed. It is strongly believed that Rudrabhishek can ward off the troubles due to the afflicted position of Saturn in one’s horoscope.

The procedure is very elaborate and needs to be organized in a meticulous manner. However, knowledge of the shastras is not that important since Lord Shiva easily forgives the shortcomings and sees only the good intention and devotion behind the puja performed by the individual. Rudrabhishek brings peace, happiness, wealth and success to families.

Before the beginning of Rudrabhishek elaborate preparations need to go. Asanas or seats are prepared for Lord Shiva, Mother Parvati, other gods and goddesses and Navagrahas. The blessings of the Lord are sought before commencing the puja along with worship of Ganesh for the successful completion of the puja. The devotee also chants the sankalp or the determination mentioning why the puja is performed.