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Maha Shivaratri, also known as Shivratri or Shiva Ratri, is a Hindu festival celebrated in honor of Lord Shiva. The word "Maha" means great, and "Ratri" means night, so Maha Shivaratri translates to the "Great Night of Shiva." The festival usually falls on the 13th night and 14th day of the dark fortnight (Krishna Paksha) in the Hindu month of Phalguna.
Devotees celebrate Maha Shivaratri by fasting, praying, and participating in various religious activities. Many people visit Shiva temples to offer prayers and perform rituals, including the Rudra Abhishekam, which involves bathing the Shiva Linga with various substances like milk, honey, yogurt, ghee, and water.
There are several reasons why Maha Shivaratri is celebrated:
Devotion to Lord Shiva: Maha Shivaratri is primarily a night dedicated to expressing devotion and reverence to Lord Shiva, who is considered the destroyer and transformer in the Hindu trinity (Brahma - the creator, Vishnu - the preserver, and Shiva - the destroyer). Devotees believe that by fasting, praying, and meditating on this night, they can seek the blessings of Lord Shiva and attain spiritual growth.
The Wedding of Shiva and Parvati: According to Hindu mythology, Maha Shivaratri commemorates the day when Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati got married. Devotees celebrate this union as a symbol of the divine cosmic balance and harmony between the masculine and feminine energies.
The Night of Vigil and Awakening: It is believed that Lord Shiva performs the cosmic dance, known as the Tandava, on Maha Shivaratri. Devotees stay awake throughout the night, engaging in prayers, chanting mantras, and performing rituals to show their dedication and to awaken their inner spiritual energy.
Revitalizing and Seeking Forgiveness: Another legend associated with Maha Shivaratri is the story of Lord Shiva drinking the poison (halahala) during the churning of the ocean (Samudra Manthan) to save the universe. It is said that this act turned his throat blue, earning him the name Neelakantha (the one with a blue throat). Devotees believe that by observing Maha Shivaratri, they can seek forgiveness for their sins and purify themselves.
Celebration of Light over Darkness: Maha Shivaratri is also seen as a celebration of light triumphing over darkness. The night symbolizes the overcoming of ignorance and the realization of one's true self through devotion and spiritual practices.
Cultural and Social Significance: In addition to its religious significance, Maha Shivaratri is a cultural event celebrated with various rituals, processions, and cultural programs. It brings communities together and fosters a sense of unity and brotherhood among people.
Maha Shivaratri holds great spiritual and cultural significance for Hindus, providing an opportunity for self-reflection, spiritual growth, and the celebration of divine consciousness.
Photo Credits: Dhwani Astro, Times now
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