Mahashivratri is a major festival of worship of Lord Shiva in Hinduism, which is celebrated on the Chaturdashi of Krishna Paksha of Falgun month. This year Mahashivratri will be celebrated on 26 February. On this day, devotees observe fast and perform special worship so that the blessings of Lord Shiva remain. To please Lord Shiva, offering special flowers in his worship is important. In a conversation with Local 18, Jyotish Akhilesh Pandey of 'Griha Sthanam' located in Rishikesh says that on the auspicious occasion of Mahashivratri, the selection of proper flowers in the worship of Lord Shiva is important to get his blessings. Shami, Dhatura, Aak, and Kaner flowers are very dear to Lord Shiva. Offering them fulfills the wishes of the devotees.

Astrologer Akhilesh Pandey says that the use of Ketaki, Lotus, and other thorny and stale flowers is prohibited in worship. Worshiping with the right method and dedication brings the immense blessings of Lord Shiva, which brings happiness, peace, and prosperity in life.

Flowers to be offered

1. Shami flower

The Shami flower is very dear to Lord Shiva. The special importance of the Shami tree and its flowers has been mentioned in the Puranas. Offering Shami flowers on the day of Mahashivratri fulfills the wishes of the devotees.

2. Dhatura flower

Dhatura is the favorite flower of Lord Shiva, which is specially included in his worship. Dhatura fruits are also offered on Shivling. Offering this flower removes many defects and one gets the blessings of Lord Shiva.

3. Aak flower

Aak flower, also known as Madar, is very dear to Mahadev. Offering this flower on Shivling fulfills the wishes of the devotees and one gets the special blessings of Lord Shiva.

4. Oleander flower

Yellow, white, and red flowers of Oleander can be offered to Lord Shiva. Offering these flowers pleases Lord Shiva and devotees receive his blessings.

Flowers are not to be offered

1. Ketaki flower

According to Shiva Purana, offering Ketaki flowers in the worship of Lord Shiva is forbidden. According to a legend, the Ketaki flower supported the lie of Lord Brahma, due to which Lord Shiva prohibited it in his worship.

2. Kantakari flower (thorny flower)

Apart from Dhatura, other thorny flowers should not be offered in the worship of Lord Shiva. Doing so can cause discord in the family.

3. Lotus flower

Lotus flower is useful in the worship of Lord Vishnu and Mother Lakshmi, but it should not be offered on Shivling.

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