Lord Shiva

Shiv Mahapuran Katha

A multi day katha and recitation of the Shiva Purana, narrating the glory of Lord Shiva, often organised in Shravan or around Maha Shivratri.

In-person Online available7 to 9 days, usually 3 to 4 hours each dayAlso: Shiv Puran KathaAlso: Shiva Purana Katha

A young devotee offering marigold flowers at a Shivling

Overview

What is Shiv Mahapuran Katha?

Shiv Mahapuran Katha is a programme in which a kathavachak recites and explains the Shiva Purana over several days, commonly seven or nine. The katha covers the greatness of Shiva, the stories of Sati and Parvati, the Jyotirlingas and the path of devotion.

Each day includes puja of the text and Shivling, the katha with bhajans, and aarti. Many programmes also include Parthiv Shivling puja or Rudrabhishek, and conclude with a havan and bhandara.

It can be organised at home, in a temple or in a hall, and is especially popular in Varanasi, the city of Lord Vishwanath.

सर्वमङ्गलमाङ्गल्ये शिवे सर्वार्थसाधिके।
शरण्ये त्र्यम्बके गौरि नारायणि नमोऽस्तु ते॥

Sarvamaṅgalamāṅgalye śive sarvārthasādhike, śaraṇye tryambake gauri nārāyaṇi namo'stu te.

O auspicious one, source of all auspiciousness, who fulfils every aim and gives refuge, O Gauri, O Narayani, salutations to you.Devi Mahatmyam (Durga Saptashati)

Significance

The Shiva Purana is one of the major Puranas and is devoted to Lord Shiva. Hearing it with devotion is traditionally regarded as highly meritorious for devotees and their families.

Holding the katha in Shravan or around Maha Shivratri brings together two of the most important observances for Shiva devotees.

Who performs it

Shiva devotees wishing to host a katha
Families and temples arranging a Shravan programme
Communities organising a public katha
Families dedicating the merit of the katha to ancestors

When to perform

In the month of Shravan
Around Maha Shivratri
In Kartik month
On a muhurat set by the Pandit

Traditionally associated with

Traditionally associated with the blessings of Lord Shiva
Devotees seek peace, devotion and inner strength
Brings the family and community together over several days
Regarded as a meritorious offering, including for ancestors

These are traditional beliefs associated with the ritual. Pujas are acts of devotion and are not a substitute for medical, financial or professional advice.

How the puja is performed

1
Kalash sthapana and sankalp
The katha begins with Ganesh puja, kalash sthapana and a sankalp.
2
Daily Shiva puja
Each day the Shivling and the text are worshipped by the Pandit.
3
Katha and bhajans
The kathavachak recites and explains the day's portion, with bhajans.
4
Abhishek
Rudrabhishek or Parthiv puja is often included on key days.
5
Havan and bhandara
The programme ends with a havan, purnahuti, aarti and bhandara.

The exact vidhi varies by region and family tradition, your Pandit will follow your customs.

Samagri (puja materials)

Shiva Purana and a vyas peeth
Shivling or Shiva image
Kalash with mango leaves and coconut
Bilva leaves, flowers and dhatura
Milk, curd, honey and Gangajal for abhishek
Ghee diyas, incense and camphor
Fruits and sweets for bhog
Havan samagri for the final day

Samagri can be arranged on request. We'll share a list suited to your vidhi before the day.

What's included

Usually included

Experienced Pandit(s) or kathavachak for the path
Sankalp in your name, gotra and family details
Guidance on setting up the space, timing and preparation
Vidhi, recitation and aarti as per tradition
Samagri can be arranged on request

Not included

Samagri, flowers and prasad, unless arranged on request
Musicians, sound system or tent, unless arranged separately
Venue or hall charges, where a venue is needed
Travel and stay for Pandits for multi day events outside the service area
Dakshina, where customs vary and are discussed openly

Duration: 7 to 9 days, usually 3 to 4 hours each day. Inclusions are confirmed for your booking on WhatsApp.

In-person puja

A Pandit performs the ritual at your home, office or chosen venue in Varanasi or Hyderabad. We help with muhurat, samagri and preparation.

Online puja

· Share your name, gotra and intention on WhatsApp
· The katha or moolpath is conducted in Varanasi with sankalp in your name
· Join daily sessions by video call

How online Shiv Mahapuran Katha works

Available in

Shiv Mahapuran Katha in Varanasi Shiv Mahapuran Katha in Hyderabad Online, worldwide

More cities are coming soon.