Most parents can do anything and go upto unknown extents to provide for their children out of their unconditional love for them. The supreme force and ultimate power known as Shiva is the parent of our universe, he is both in form of a body and also formless , he maintains all actions in a balanced form. Shiva is known as Bholenath which directly translates to innocent. Shivji is simple, loving and soft. He accepts everyone in any form, those who feel left out by society, by family etc are all accepted by him, poisonous animals, demons, spirits, animals everyone and everything is accepted by him. Writing about Shivji is not possible, we can go on and on until all the resources are used up. As loving as Shivji is, there is hardly anything anyone can do to offend him.
Coming back to the question, does Maha Om Namah Shivay Mantra cause any side effects if chanted casually anytime or anywhere without following any prayer rules as it is the mantra of the fierce form of Lord Shiva?
There was a question asked by someone who wrote that he doesn’t practice any rituals or Sadhanas but he chants the Om Namah Shivay mantra everyday for the past 3 years.
In response: It is paramount that a person must understand that this particular mantra is a very powerful mantra that connects you to the protective, shielding nature of Shivji. No divine energy will ever destroy you when you place faith in it and surrender to it using a mantra. Shivji/Mrityunjaya Mahadev destroys evil but NEVER his devotees. Would a parent ever destroy his child for uttering something wrong unintentionally? No way! Shivji is by nature compassionate, loving, peaceful and benevolent. Though some people prefer prescribed methods, rituals or a particular way of chanting please feel free to remember Shivji. This mantra has only done good for me all my life even when I practice breathing excercises, I mentally chant this mantra. In my opinion it is your heart, the feeling with which you remember him that counts. I have experienced only good side effects like peace and happiness from this mantra and the supreme divinity it transmits. Chant it with love, devotion and affection so that the fierce form of Mahadev can destroy all the negative forces in your life and bless you with all good things abundantly.
Love, enjoy and live! Om Namah Shivay!