Maha Shivratri, one of the most significant festivals in Hindu, is dedicated to Lord Shiva, the third deity in the Hindu trinity.
Often called "the great night of Shiva," this revered festival takes place just before the arrival of the spring season.
People across the country celebrate with grand festivities, showing their devotion to Lord Shiva through chanting prayers, mantras, fasting, meditating, and singing bhajans throughout the night. At dawn, devotees take a ritual bath and visit temples, offering milk, flowers, and prayers to seek Lord Shiva’s blessings.
Maha Shivratri History
Maha Shivratri symbolizes the triumph over darkness and ignorance, promoting spiritual awakening and self-reflection. According to legend, it is believed to be the day Lord Shiva drank the poisonous negativity to protect the world. Another legend suggests that it is the night Lord Shiva performs the heavenly dance of creation, preservation, and destruction. Some believe this is also the night Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati were married.
Maha Shivratri Significance
The festival serves as a reminder of the impermanence of life and the cyclical nature of existence. It encourages devotees to embrace change, release attachments, and seek inner transformation. For yogis and seekers on the path of self-realization, Maha Shivratri holds deep spiritual significance. It is believed that on this night, the energy centers in the body, known as ‘chakras’, align with cosmic energy, aiding in spiritual awakening and enlightenment.
Maha Shivratri Rituals
The rituals on Maha Shivratri involve decorating the Shiva Linga with flowers and bael leaves. Devotees observe a day-long fast, offering bhaang, fruits, honey, ghee, sweets, and milk to Lord Shiva. Early in the morning, they take a ritual bath and visit the temple to seek blessings.
In the evening, devotees gather at temples to worship the Shiva Linga, light lamps, and spend the entire night in prayer. Many temples across India host spectacular processions with Lord Shiva and Parvati being carried on a palanquin during the night.
After the fast, a light sattvik meal is consumed, which typically includes non-cereal foods, fruits, and sweets. This marks the end of the day-long fast and signifies the completion of the sacred observances.
Maha Shivratri Fasting Rules
On Maha Shivratri, devotees follow strict fasting rules to Lord Shiva. Many choose to abstain from all food and water, while others may observe a partial fast, consuming only fruits, milk, and nuts throughout the day and night.
The fast is traditionally broken on the morning after Maha Shivratri, once the sun rises. The first meal consists of simple vegetarian foods, such as fruits and milk, which are considered sacred and blessed. Before partaking in the meal, devotees offer prayers and seek Lord Shiva’s blessings to mark the end of their fasting ritual.
The fast typically ends the following morning, after sunrise, with a simple vegetarian meal, such as fruits and milk. This first meal is considered sacred, and before eating, devotees offer prayers to Lord Shiva, seeking his blessings for the sacred occasion!
Story Of Maha Shivratri
Video by THE HINDU SAGA
