Mahashivratri 2026 – Never Offer These 5 Things on the Shivling

On Mahashivratri 2026, Shiva devotees please Mahadev by performing rituals, worship, and fasting, and by offering various items to Him. It is believed that devotees should never offer certain things to Lord Shiva, as doing so may anger Him. Let us know in detail which things should not be offered to Lord Shiva and the beliefs associated with them.

Mahashivratri 2026 – Do Not Use Tulsi

In Hinduism, using Tulsi leaves in worship is considered very auspicious and pure. It is believed that devotees should never offer Tulsi leaves on the Shivling. A mythological story states that Lord Shiva killed the demon Jalandhar, the husband of Goddess Tulsi. Angered by this, Tulsi distanced herself from the worship of Lord Shiva. This is why devotees do not offer Tulsi leaves on the Shivling on Mahashivratri.

Do Not Offer Kumkum

Sindoor and kumkum represent feminine energy and people use them for adornment. Lord Shiva represents asceticism and detachment from worldly desires. For this reason, devotees consider offering sindoor on the Shivling forbidden. Instead of sindoor, roli, or kumkum, devotees can use sacred ash (bhasma) and sandalwood in Shiva worship. This pleases Lord Shiva and brings happiness and prosperity in life. However, according to some beliefs, devotees may offer kumkum.

Mahashivratri 2026 – Do Not Blow the Conch

You may have seen people blowing the conch after temple worship, but devotees never use a conch during Lord Shiva’s worship. According to a mythological story, the demon Shankhachuda troubled the gods. Lord Shiva killed him with His trident. His body turned into ash, and a conch emerged from it. This is why devotees do not use a conch in the worship of Lord Shiva. Therefore, on Shivratri, never use a conch in Shivling worship.

Do Not Worship Shiva with Ketaki Flowers

On Mahashivratri 2026, devotees consider offering bel leaves, datura, and bhang to Lord Shiva very auspicious. These offerings keep Lord Shiva’s blessings on devotees. However, beliefs say devotees should never offer certain flowers on the Shivling. According to mythology, Lord Shiva cursed the Ketaki flower for supporting Lord Brahma’s falsehood. Since then, devotees consider offering Ketaki flowers to Lord Shiva forbidden. Devotees should also avoid offering kaner or red-colored flowers.

Do These Things on Mahashivratri

Perform worship during at least one of the four night phases.
Chant the Panchakshari mantra at least 1008 times, if possible.
Worship Lord Shiva along with His entire family.
Offer fruits as prasad to the Lord.