Maha Shivratri is a significant Hindu festival dedicated to Lord Shiva, celebrated annually with devotion and spiritual fervor.
📅 When is Maha Shivratri Celebrated?
It falls on the 14th night of the dark fortnight (Krishna Paksha) in the month of Phalguna (February–March).
🌟 Why is Maha Shivratri Celebrated?
- Marriage of Shiva & Parvati – It marks the divine wedding of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.
- The Night of Shiva’s Cosmic Dance – It is believed that on this night, Shiva performed the Tandava, the dance of destruction and creation.
- Shiva Linga Manifestation – Some legends say that Lord Shiva appeared as an infinite Linga on this day.
🙏 How is Maha Shivratri Celebrated?
- Fasting (Vrata) – Devotees observe a strict fast, some without water (Nirjala).
- Night-long Worship (Jagran) – Temples stay open for devotees to chant ‘Om Namah Shivaya’ and offer prayers.
- Abhishekam (Ritual Bath of Shiva Linga) – Shiva Lingas are bathed with milk, honey, ghee, curd, and water.
- Offerings to Shiva – Devotees present Bael leaves, fruits, and bhang as sacred offerings.
- Spiritual Practices – Chanting of Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra, meditation, and reading of Shiva Purana.
🌍 Maha Shivratri Across India
- Ujjain (Madhya Pradesh) – The biggest celebration at Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga.
- Varanasi (Uttar Pradesh) – Grand Ganga Aarti and temple processions.
- Kedarnath (Uttarakhand) – Pilgrimage to Kedarnath Jyotirlinga.
- Pashupatinath (Nepal) – Thousands gather at Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu.
🕉️ Shiva Mantras for Maha Shivratri
- Om Namah Shivaya – The most powerful Shiva mantra.
- Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra – Chant for health and longevity:
“ॐ त्र्यम्बकं यजामहे सुगन्धिं पुष्टिवर्धनम्।
उर्वारुकमिव बन्धनान् मृत्योर्मुक्षीय मामृतात्॥”