Ujjain, July 11 -- The sacred Bhasma Aarti was performed at the Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga Temple in Ujjain on the first day of the 'Sawan' month. Devotees gathered in large numbers to witness the early morning ritual, which is considered very divine. The temple reverberated with Vedic chants in the early morning, accompanied by the sounds of conch shells, bells, and hymns. 'Sawan' is the fifth month of the Hindu lunar calendar, and is considered one of the holiest months.

One of the temple Priests said," Today is the first day of Sawan month, the doors of Lord Mahakaleshwar temple were opened at 3:00 am today...traditionally, the pooja hours run from 4 to 6...but from past several years, the doors of the temple are being opened one hour ...