Lingaraj Temple in Bhubaneswar in Odisha is dedicated to Mahadev Shiva and is famous for its architecture and unique temple rituals. The temple is famous for a unique ritual known as Abakash Nithi and it is performed at 6:15 AM. This ritual is also known as Dant Manjan – the ritual of brushing the teeth of the deity.
To brush the teeth of the deity twigs of neem or bajra (millet) is used. Mooli (radish) or kumbatwa is also used for the ritual.
After the ritual of brushing teeth, the deity is given a ritual bath known as Mahasnana. The shivling is bathed daily with water, milk and bhang. The deity is then adorned with sandal paste and flowers.