Performing Mangal Dosh Puja in Ujjain: A Step-by-Step Guide

 Mangal Dosh Puja is a significant ritual in Hindu astrology, performed to lessen the negative effects of the planet Mars (Mangal) in a person's birth chart. In Ujjain, a city renowned for its spiritual significance, this puja holds great importance. If you or someone you know needs to perform this puja, here's a simple guide to help you understand the process.

1. Finding a Knowledgeable Priest:

The first step is to find a knowledgeable and experienced priest in Ujjain who can perform the Mangal Dosh Puja correctly. They will guide you through the entire process and ensure it aligns with your specific astrological situation.

2. Choosing an Auspicious Date:

Select an auspicious date and time for the puja. Astrologers often recommend performing this puja on a Tuesday, as Tuesday is associated with Mars. The timing can vary, so consult with your priest or astrologer for the best recommendation based on your birth chart.

3. Gathering the Necessary Items:

You will need various items for the puja, including flowers, incense sticks, camphor, turmeric, kumkum (vermilion), sweets, and fruits. Your priest will provide you with a list of required items.

4. Preparation at Home:

On the chosen day, clean your home and create a clean and sacred space for the puja. Set up the idols or images of Lord Hanuman and Lord Shiva, as they are often worshipped during Mangal Dosh Puja.

5. Sankalp (Resolve):

Begin the puja by taking a sankalp, which is a vow or resolution. State your name, birth details, and the purpose of the puja, which is to alleviate the negative effects of Mangal Dosh.

6. Offerings to Lord Hanuman and Lord Shiva:

Offer flowers, incense, camphor, turmeric, kumkum, sweets, and fruits to Lord Hanuman and Lord Shiva. Chant their respective mantras and seek their blessings to remove the dosh.

7. Mangal Mantra Chanting:

Recite the Mangal Mantra, "ॐक्रां क्रीं क्रौं सः भौमाय नमः" (Om Kram Kreem Kraum Sah Bhaumaya Namah) while holding red flowers in your hand. Repeat this mantra for at least 108 times or as advised by your priest.

8. Homam (Fire Ritual):

The priest will conduct a homam, a sacred fire ritual, using specific ingredients like ghee and grains while chanting Vedic mantras. This ritual symbolizes the purification of negative influences.

9. Donation and Charity:

After the puja, it's customary to donate to the needy as a gesture of goodwill. This can include food, clothes, or monetary contributions.

10. Prasad Distribution:

Finally, distribute the prasad (blessed offerings) to your family, friends, and guests present during the puja.

Performing the Mangal Dosh Puja with devotion and sincerity is believed to alleviate the adverse effects of Mars in your birth chart. Remember that astrology and rituals can vary, so it's essential to consult with an experienced priest or astrologer to tailor the puja to your specific needs and birth chart. Ujjain's spiritual atmosphere adds a special touch to the process, making it a memorable and meaningful experience.