Where to Place the Shivling: The month of Sawan is considered especially significant for the worship of Lord Shiva. During this period, alongside the ritual bathing (*Jalabhishek*) of the Shivling in temples, Lord Bholenath is also worshipped in homes. If you are planning to install a Shivling at home, you should pay attention to its placement direction and other important guidelines. According to religious beliefs, installing the Shivling in the correct direction fosters a positive atmosphere in the home.

Pandit Sanjay Upadhyay, an astrologer from Kashi, stated that the *Ishan Kon*—the North-East corner—is considered the most suitable location for keeping a Shivling at home. It is believed that worshipping a Shivling installed in this direction maintains positive energy within the house and dispels negative energy. Attention must be paid to direction not only during installation but also during worship.

Place the Shivling in the North-East Corner
According to Pandit Sanjay Upadhyay, the North-East corner (*Ishan Kon*) is regarded as the best spot for installing a Shivling at home. Religious belief holds that installing the Shivling in this direction and performing regular worship ensures a continuous flow of positive energy in the household.

Additionally, one must consider the direction of the *Jaldhari*—the channel through which water flows from the Shivling—during installation. Pandit Sanjay Upadhyay advises that the *Jaldhari* should face towards the north. Furthermore, when worshipping a Shivling placed in the North-East corner, one should face either the north or the east. Religious belief suggests that this practice invites Lord Shiva's grace and brings peace of mind.

Avoid Keeping a Large Shivling at Home
Pandit Sanjay Upadhyay noted that instead of a very large or heavy Shivling, one can install a Shivling the size of a thumb. Once installed, it is considered essential to worship the Shivling regularly.

Perform *Jalabhishek* Daily
Regular worship should be performed after installing the Shivling at home. According to Pandit Sanjay Upadhyay, the Shivling can be bathed (*Abhishek*) daily with milk or *Gangajal* (water from the Ganges). This should be followed by offering sacred ash (*Bhasma*), sandalwood paste (*Chandan*), and *Belpatra* (Bilva leaves). Religious belief holds that this ensures Lord Shiva's grace remains upon the devotees.

Which Type of Shivling Should Be Kept at Home? There are various types of Shivlings, but the Narmadeshwar Shivling is considered auspicious for installation in the home. According to Pandit Sanjay Upadhyay, the Narmadeshwar Shivling does not require the *Pran Pratishtha* (consecration) ritual for installation. Apart from the Narmadeshwar Shivling, a Sphatik (crystal) Shivling can also be installed in the home.

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