FAQs
You can register for the event either at the local centers or online:
Please visit Mahashivratri page and go to “Attend In Person” to complete the registration. In case of any queries, you can submit an enquiry and a volunteer will call you in 4-7 days to explain the various seating options.
Note: Due to the overwhelming response to the event, if we are not able to attend to you and you do not hear back from us within this period, you can call the registration point in the respective centers/ can give the local center details.
After you indicate the category of your choice an email with a donation link will be sent to you within 24- 48 hours entitled ‘please complete your donation’.
Please check your spam folder as it may land there. Please note donation link is active for 30 days.
Yes, please bring a valid Govt. issued photo identification card that you used while registering for Mahashivarathri seating pass.
For overseas participants Passport with valid Visa is mandatory.
Check-in counters for registered participants will be open from 10 am to 5 pm on the day of the event. Toilets and refreshing facilities are available in the celebration venue. Please bring printout of your e-pass that was send by email.
Mahashivarathri will be conducted in English with Tamil, Hindi and Mandarin translation.
Yes. Please bring your medication with you.
Chairs are provided throughout the event.
During Mahashivarathri we do not have the facilities or resources to take care of children and/ or minors during the event. We request you to arrange guardianship at home for them while you are here.
Participants should be at least 10 years of age. If you wish to stay in Coimbatore with your family and bring everyone for MSR night that is also fine.
Due to the large scale of the event, it would be best if you register at least 15 days before the event to avoid any disappointments. Spot registrations on the day will be subject to availability.
Within one business day after you have donated, you will receive a receipt for your donation and a confirmation email with your registration number. Closer to the event, you will receive an ePass by email.
Yes, Mahashivarathri event is open to all.
In all categories, one person per seating pass. Seating passes are not transferable.
Everyone will go through the whole process / event in the same fashion; one major difference is the proximity to the dias during Mahashivarathri.
We apologize –There will not be any accommodation available for Mahashivarathri.
You can sit with your parents in Mahanadi bay area. But your parents will not be able to sit with you in Ganga bay area.
They could avail the Mahashivarathri seating pass either for the same bay as yours or any other bay they wish to donate for and attend the event.
You can donate through Wire transfer. Once the funds are cleared and reach the Isha bank account, your participation can be confirmed. We advise you not to book travel tickets till your participation is confirmed. Online card payment and cash payments are possible if you visit any of the offline RPs. We DO NOT accept cheque payment.
Yes, the donor can be any person. Accordingly, the donation receipts will be raised only to the donor. You cannot make the donation in parts.
No
Limited parking spaces are available. Parking is at owner’s risk and no liability will be taken by event organizers.
Yes, you can attend.
Traditional Indian clothing is encouraged. Please adhere to a modest style of clothing while in the ashram. Both men and women must cover shoulders, upper arms, legs till ankles and midriff at all times. Proper western attire
includes: ankle length pants for both men and women (no capris or shorts) and long shirts that cover upper arms. Please avoid tight clothes – both for your own comfort and as a sign of respect for the local culture.
During Yaksha and Mahashivarathri, festive ethnic Indian wear is encouraged.
From December to March, the weather is moderately cold during the night and warm during the day with temperatures reaching a minimum of 17°C (62.6°F) and a maximum of 35°C (95°F)
Due to severe water shortage at the yoga center, washing of clothes will not be possible. Laundry facility will not be available. Please bring enough sets of clothes for the entire duration of the program.
Regular buses and taxis are available between Coimbatore and Isha Yoga Center. From Gandhipuram Town Bus Stand, Coimbatore to Isha Yoga Center- Bus No. 14D, every half an hour starting from 5.30 am in the morning.
Isha Travel Help Line:9442615436, 0422-2515430
Taxi Taxi: 0422-40506070, Airport Prepaid: 99764 94000,
Fast Track: 0422-2200000 (Please check charges and book in advance).
Ola/Uber taxis through Mobile apps.
There are no criteria, any one above 10 years of old and of reasonable physical fitness can attend the event.
Due to the nature of the program, and for you to make the most of it, you can keep the use of mobile phone to minimal during the program.
NOTE: Mobile phone charging facility will NOT be available.
Maha Annadhanam will be provided for all participants who will be attending the event. If you have to carry your own food due to dietary conditions you can carry wholesome vegetarian meals.
No need to bring yoga mats.
Event starts at 6 pm, please be seated by 5 pm. Devi procession will start by around 7 PM.
As Sadhguru would be completely focused on the event, this may not be possible. It is advised that you fully involve yourself in the process, and make it easier for Him by giving yourself 100% to the instructions. He will be guiding us throughout so let us support this.
Pradakshina is a process of circumambulating a powerful energy source in a clock wise direction to imbibe its energy. This can be especially potent at 11 degrees latitude where the isha yoga center is located. The adiyogi pradakshina has been created by sadhguru for one to become receptive to the grace of adiyogi which can fuel one’s striving towards ultimate liberation. It is open for all.
Pradakshina timings: Feb 18th 2023 form 6 am to 2 pm
Also on Feb 19th 2023 from 6 am onwards
Yaksha is a 3-day event followed by Mahashivarathri which is one night event.
Feb 15 to 17: Yaksha (7:00 PM onwards)
Feb 18 : Mahashivarathri (6PM – 6 AM)
Yes, it is possible for general donation. When you are donating from a bank account based out of India, you need to provide the Indian mobile number, Indian Address, PAN number
If you are donating from an Overseas bank account, you need to provide Overseas contact number, overseas Address, Passport copy.
In case of seating passes, payment should be form one account type either India overseas depends upon nationality and country of residence.
Chanting can be done.
Yes
The Mahashivarathri sadhana is a preparation for Mahashivarathri –a night of tremendous possibilities. This sadhana can be done by anyone over the age of eight can participate in the sadhana, which can be done for a duration of 40/21/14/7 or 3 consecutive days leading up to Mahashivarathri on February 18, 2023. This sadhana will culminate at Dhyanalinga (or optionally at home).
For further information please visit the link
You can hear the chants and watch the Shiva Namaskar video at: here
An Exuberance of music and dance leading up to Mahashivaratri. Yaksha will be happening between February 15th to Feb 17 2023 at Isha Yoga Center.
In an endeavor to preserve and promote the uniqueness, purity and diversity of the country’s performing arts, Isha Foundation annually hosts Yaksha, a three-day festival of culture, music and dance with performances by renowned artistes.
We invite you to immerse yourself in a profound experience of India’s majestic ancient culture.
Sadhguru has not specified any particular hand position. You can place your hands in a way that is comfortable to you
For the entire Sadhana period
The cloth should not be taken off during the entire Sadhana period for any reason
Please apply only vibuti- its best to use Vibhuti obtained from Isha, to ensure authenticity and also it has been consecrated.
Neem and Vilva leaves can often be found at Indian stores around the world. You can order neem powder and make small balls of the powder mixed with water and consume them. If neem and vilva is not available, you can skip this for the culmination.
There is no particular sequence, just ensure shivanamaskar is done before sunrise or after sunset.
Soak 8-10 peppercorns together with 2-3 vilva or neem leaves in honey, and a handful of groundnuts in water, overnight. After the Shiva Namaskar and chanting, chew the leaves, consume the peppercorns after mixing them with lemon juice, and eat the groundnuts as well. If neem or vilva leaves are not available, please take neem powder balls. Neem powder is available at IshaShoppe.com. Please be sure to finish your regular sadhana such as Shambhavi Mahamudra before consuming these
The lamp/candle should be lit at the start of your practices. Ideally you light a lamp and leave it burning after the Sadhana, but if using a large candle or if you have safety concerns to leave it burning, you can put it out after your Sadhana by using a flower to snuff it out. Best not to blow it out.
You should leave the black cloth on the arm throughout the Sadhana period (40, 21, 14, 7 or 3 days) and not remove it during this period.
You can get snanam powder from Isha centers. If you cannot get that, you can use something something organic which doesnt have chemicals
You can apply it before your Sadhana and leave it on after that. You cannot make Vibhuti at home, best to get it from a trusted source. It’s good if you can use Vibhuti obtained from Isha to ensure authenticity, and the Vibhuti from Isha has also been consecrated.
A meal will be provided after 12 for those participating in the Sadhana. You will need to provide your own peppercorns, groundnuts, lemons, etc.
The cloth must be worn on the arm.
When you decide to participate in this Sadhana, it is important you make the commitment to do the Sadhana every day. If you are committed, you will be able to find a way to do this. You can do it any time before sunrise, so you can make sure you wake up early enough to do it before starting your day. This sadhana is very powerful and has the possibility of transforming your life, so please see how to make this happen for you!
Remaining in Jagarana on the night of Mahashivaratri is an essential part of this Sadhana. Whatever efforts you are putting into the sadhana for 40 days, this is the night to reap the benefits, so you want to make maximum use of it. See whatever aids you can use to make yourself more alert, like taking a cold water bath, keeping your hair wet, you can get up and go for a walk. See if there is a local celebration you can join. You can even watch the live webstream from Isha Yoga Center online.
Yes, you can
Sadhana clarification
Sadhguru has offered the following Sadhanas for the upcoming Mahashivartri:
1. Shivanga Sadhana: for men- this Sadhana culminates with a trek to Velliangiri Hill.
For more details visit:
Shivanga Sadhana and Initiation Schedule
2. Mahashivaratri Sadhana: for both men and women. 40/21/12/7/3 days’ Sadhana. Culmination at Dhyanalinga (or optionally at home).
For more details visit:
Mahashivratri Sadhana Instructions & Guidelines
Sit in a cross-legged posture. (If you are uncomfortable sitting on the floor, you can sit on a chair.)
Bring your thumb and ring finger together. Women should use their left hand, and men should use their right hand (as shown in the video).
If possible, make the first digits of the two fingers touch.
If you have a rudraksha, you can hold it between the fingers.
Ensure you get the correct pronunciation and tune of “AUM NAMAH SHIVAYA.”
Do it for 21 minutes at a stretch, using the audio.
Close your eyes throughout the process.
For the first 21 days (at least), light a lamp or keep a picture of Sadhguru, Adiyogi, or Dhyanalinga in front of you.
It is best to take a shower before the practice.
The practice can be done both in the morning and evening every day. If that is not possible, do it at least in the morning.
Sit in Ardhasiddhasana for the practice. If you have not learned it, sit in a simple cross-legged posture.
If you are sitting on a chair, cross your legs at the ankles with the right ankle over the left.
If you have a rudraksha, hold it with the tips of your thumb and ring finger. Otherwise, make the first digits of these two fingers touch. Women should use their left hand, while men should use their right hand.
Place your other hand on your thigh, and keep the palm relaxed and facing upward.
If you have a rudraksha, it is best to use it. You can take off your rudraksha mala and hold it in your hand, with your hand resting on your thigh.
Poornangas and Brahmacharies can also do the same.
If you don't have a rudraksha, you can still chant by bringing the first digit of your thumb and ring finger together.
No, please chant for only 21 minutes. If you have more time after the chant, Sadhguru has instructed that you simply sit still.
Do it intensely – not too loud but intense.
You can still do the practice. Please watch the initiation video and then continue with the daily practice.
It is best to use the audio.
There is no need to be on an empty stomach for the practice. However, it is best to avoid practicing right after a full meal. Maintaining a light stomach is ideal. If you practice early in the morning as recommended by Sadhguru, your stomach will naturally be empty.
No. Whether it is shivratri, purnima, amavasya, ekadasi, pradosham, or any other occasion, it must be done according to Sadhguru’s guidance — in the morning and in the evening.
It is best to chant the Mahamantra first and then continue with your other practices.
It is recommended to do the practice at 5:40 AM. However, if that is not possible, you can chant at any time in the morning or evening.
You can register for Mahashivratri volunteering by filling out this form: click here
Only those who have been initiated into Shambhavi Mahamudra Kriya can volunteer. All volunteers are encouraged to come for at least 7 days in advance, i.e. on 11th of Feb.
For Indians, please bring your passport, Voter ID card, driver’s license or Aadhar card.
Note: Please bring the same photo ID card which you have uploaded in the form here.
Definitely volunteering opportunities will be available to all those who come for Mahashivratri celebrations. An event like this would not be possible without the dedication and commitment of volunteers. But due to limited infrastructure at the Isha Yoga Center, it will not be possible for us to offer volunteer dormitory accommodation to those who come after 17th Feb.
All volunteers will be staying in temporary dormitory facilities.
That are being created especially for Mahashivratri. We request all volunteers to plan accordingly. Please refer to FAQ 6 for a detailed list of items to bring. The Mahashivratri event is about making the spiritual possibility of the night available to all, and so we request your understanding if some adjustments must be made in terms of personal comfort or convenience.
The ashram will not be providing any bedding items. All volunteers are requested to carry their own bedding items. This includes yoga mat / mattress (if you need one), bedsheet and pillow. From December to March, the weather is moderately cold during the night and warm during the day with temperatures reaching a minimum of 17°C (62.6°F) and a maximum of 35°C (95°F). Please bring warm clothing and a blanket for the night.
Note: Family members coming as a group should keep their belongings and toiletries separate, as they may be given separate accommodation.
Toiletries
Torchlight
Umbrella
Mosquito repellant cream
Bedding items
Sufficient clothing
Warm clothing (shawl, sweater, etc.)
Medication (prescribed and general medicines for headache, fever, pain relieving gel, antacids for digestive disorders, etc.)
Luggage lock and key(s)
Power banks
Yoga Mat
Sleeping bags (If possible)
Water bottle
Hat or cap to protect against the sunlight
The Isha Yoga Center is a safe place and security personnel are available 24/7. However, with an event of this scale, we recommend you take extra care with regard to your belongings. As you will be staying in shared accommodation, please do not bring any valuables, jewellery, or expensive electronic gadgets. To safeguard your belongings, please carry a lock and key, and keep your bags locked to be on the safe side.
Limited charging facilities will be made available in the stay areas. Please do not leave your mobile phones unattended while charging. It would be best if you can carry your own mobile power banks.
Volunteers will need to arrive latest by 17th Feb and stay up till 23th Feb. As a lot of preparation is required to make the event happen, we recommend if you can reach as early as January.
Volunteers will be seated in a separate volunteer bay during Mahashivratri. You do not need to book a seating pass for yourself.
As volunteers, we play a crucial role in how people experience the Mahashivratri event. We will be giving volunteers different activities to take care of during the entire night. Once you have taken this decision of offering yourself as a volunteer for this Mahashivratri, we strongly recommend that you participate as a volunteer throughout the night. The experience of the program can be greatly enhanced simply by making oneself an offering. If you still wish to get a seating pass, you can do so after checking with your area coordinator.
Traditional Indian clothing is encouraged. Please adhere to a modest style of clothing while in the ashram. Both men and women must cover shoulders, upper arms, midriff and legs up to the ankles at all times. Proper western attire includes: ankle length pants for both men and women (no capris or shorts) and long shirts that cover upper arms. Please avoid tight clothes – both for your own comfort and as a sign of respect for the local culture.
During Yaksha and Mahashivratri, festive and ethnic Indian wear is encouraged.
Due to severe water shortage at the Yoga Center, washing of clothes will not be possible. Laundry facility will not be available. Please bring enough sets of clothes for the entire duration of your stay.
Yes.
Yes. Please bring your medication with you.
Only those who have been initiated into Shambhavi Mahamudra Kriya will be allowed to stay in the volunteer accommodation. Other family and guests can register for Mahashivratri and join the nightlong celebration.
The Isha Yoga Center does not have the facilities or resources to take care of children and/or minors during the program. We request you to arrange guardianship at home for them while you are here.
Limited parking will be available. If you wish to offer your vehicle to support with venue preparations, you can do so as well.
A basic First Aid facility will be available; however, the nearest hospitals are about 1 hour away in normal traffic conditions. Please note, during Mahashivratri, it will take longer to get to the hospital due to increased traffic. The nearest medical shops are 8 kilometers away. Please keep your regular medication with you.
Yes, you can register for the workshop and also volunteer for Mahashivratri.