
Lord Shiva, alternatively known as Bholenath or Mahadeva, holds a significant place among Hindu deities, revered as both the destroyer and a benevolent god. Maha Shivratri, also called the Great Night of Shiva, stands as a grand festival dedicated to Lord Shiva, celebrated with immense fervor, faith, and devotion throughout India.
Annually observed typically between February and March, Maha Shivratri honors Lord Shiva according to the Hindu calendar, falling on the fourteenth day (chaturdashi) of the shukla paksha (bright lunar phase) of Phalguna or Magha. This festival commemorates the divine union of Shiva and Parvati and marks the occasion of Shiva’s cosmic dance, known as the Tandava.
In the year 2024, Mahashivratri is slated for March 8th. The Chaturdashi Tithi begins at 09:57 PM and concludes at 06:17 PM on March 8th. Worshipping Lord Shiva during the Nishita Kaal, the eighth part of the night, holds particular importance, believed to fulfill one’s wishes during this auspicious time. The Nishita Kaal puja timing spans from 12:07 AM to 12:56 AM midnight.
Maha Shivratri stands apart from other Hindu festivals as it is predominantly observed during the night. Unlike elaborate cultural festivities, it serves as a time for introspection, fasting, meditation on Shiva, temple visits, promoting social harmony, and staying awake in vigil throughout the night.
Shaiva Hindus commemorate Maha Shivaratri with jagaran, staying awake all night to offer prayers. The festival symbolizes the triumph over darkness and ignorance, with devotees making offerings of bel patra leaves, fruits, milk, and sweets to Lord Shiva. Some observe fasts and engage in Vedic or tantric worship, while others practice meditative yoga. The recitation of the “Om Namah Shivaayaa” mantra and the reading of Shiv Chalisa are common practices.
The significance of Maha Shivratri finds mention in ancient texts like Linga Purana, Skanda Purana, and Padma Purana. It symbolizes the celestial dance of Shiva, the divine wedding of Shiva and Parvati, and the overcoming of sins through worship. The festival also commemorates the episode of Shiva swallowing the poison produced during the Samudra Manthana, earning him the epithet Nilakantha.
Observing puja rituals on Mahashivratri involves waking up early, cleansing oneself, and the surroundings, offering prayers with ghee lamps, performing abhishekam at Shiva temples, and observing a day-long fast. Devotees chant Shiva Chalisa and powerful mantras like “Om Namah Shivaaya” and “Om Namo Bhagwate Rudraaya” to invoke Lord Shiva’s blessings and prosperity.