* "Why Shiva Pooja (Shivalinga Jalabhisheka Puja) is performed in Shravan Month *

"Why Shiva Pooja (Shivalinga Jalabhisheka Puja) is performed in Shravan Month *

The legend says the ‘Samudra Manthan’ (churning of the ocean) was happened in Shravan Month. While churning the ocean, fourteen different types of gems came out from it. Thirteen of those were distributed among the demons (Asuras – Rakshasas), except the poison which is known as ‘Halahala’.
The Halahala was fuming out dangerously and was about to swallow the entire universe. Then upon the request of Gods and demons, Lord Shiva drank the poison and stored it in his throat. Since then Lord Shiva has got the name of ‘Neelakantha’ (Neela – blue, kathan – throat).

To please Lord Shiva, devotees perform ‘Jalabhishekam’ (Abhishekam – bathing with Gangajal or normal water). Devotees believe Jalabhishekam makes Shiva feel some relief from the hotness and the tough nature of poison."

Mrityunjaya Rudraya Neelakanthaya sambhave. Amriteshaya sarvaya mahadevayadhe Namaha