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Maha Shivratri is a Hindu festival celebrated annually to honor Lord Shiva, one of the principal deities in Hinduism. The festival falls on the 14th day of the dark fortnight in the Hindu month of Phalguna or Maagh (February or March in the Gregorian calendar). It is a significant festival for millions of devotees of Lord Shiva worldwide.
In this article, we will take an in-depth look at the history, significance, and customs of Maha Shivratri, and guide you through the traditional ways of celebrating this holy festival.
History of Maha Shivratri
The word Maha Shivratri has its roots in the Sanskrit language, where “Maha” means great, and “Shivratri” means the night of Shiva. According to Hindu mythology, Maha Shivratri marks the day when Lord Shiva performed the “Tandava,” a divine dance that symbolizes the cycle of creation, preservation, and destruction.
There are several legends associated with the origin of Maha Shivratri. One of the most popular beliefs is that it was on this day that Lord Shiva consumed the poison that emerged from the ocean during the Samudra Manthan (churning of the ocean) by the gods and demons. The poison could have destroyed the world, but Lord Shiva consumed it to save the universe. He came to be known as Neelkanth, as a result of his throat turning blue.
Another story suggests that Maha Shivratri is the day when Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati got married. The day is celebrated as the union of Shiva and Shakti, the masculine and feminine energies of the universe, symbolizing the creation of life.
Significance of Maha Shivratri
Maha Shivratri is an essential festival for Lord Shiva devotees as it is believed that worshipping Lord Shiva on this day absolves a person of their sins and grants them Moksha (salvation). It is also a day to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva and attain enlightenment, peace, and harmony in life.
The festival also holds great significance for the farmers, as they pray to Lord Shiva for a good harvest and prosperity. It is also a time for families and friends to come together, exchange greetings, and celebrate with great enthusiasm.
Traditions and Customs of Maha Shivratri
Maha Shivratri is celebrated with great fervor and devotion in different parts of India and Nepal. Devotees observe a day-long fast and break it only after performing the puja (worship) of Lord Shiva at night. The traditional way of observing the fast is to consume only fruits, milk, and water throughout the day.
On this day, the Shivlinga, a symbol of Lord Shiva, is bathed with milk, honey, and water, and adorned with flowers and garlands. The chanting of mantras, singing bhajans (devotional songs), and reciting the Rudra Sukta, a hymn from the Rigveda dedicated to Lord Shiva, forms an integral part of the puja.
In some parts of India, devotees visit Lord Shiva temples to offer their prayers and perform Abhishekam, a ritual that involves pouring water, milk, or other offerings on the Shivlinga. In certain places, people light bonfires and dance to the beat of drums, representing the divine dance of Lord Shiva.
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