Shivratri is observed as the “night of Shiva”, the Hindu god, who is referred as “the destroyer of evil.” This special day is not for celebrations and merry-making but to worship Lord Shiva, introspect and become meditative. While Shivratri comes once every month, Maha Shivratri or the “great night of Shiva” comes once in a year, just before the arrival of Spring season in the month of February or March. Its date keeps changing every year as it is related to the lunar calendar.
On Shivratri devotees observe fast and chant shlokas. They also pray to the gods to absolve them of all their sins. Devotees, traditionally offer milk, water, bel leaves (three leaves stalked in one) and fruits to the Shivalingam. Worshippers begin the day by a dip in the holy river of Ganga. On the ocassion of Maha Shivratri, wish your friends and family members.
What Is Significance Of Shivratri?
There are several legends around Maha Shivratri. According to a legend, Maha Shivaratri was the day when Shiva drank poisonous negativity to protect the world. Another legend says that it is the night when Shiva performs the heavenly dance of creation, preservation and destruction, while some believe that this is the night when Shiva and Parvati got married.
The major Jyotirlinga Shiva temples of India – in Varanasi and Somnatha – are frequented on Maha Shivaratri by the Shiva devotees. It is also celebrated in the temples all over Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Telangana.
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