Facts About Maha Shivratri

Maha Shivratri is one of the most important festivals of Hinduism. It is a day when Lord Shiva is being worshiped.  Every year, Maha Shivratri is celebrated on the day of Chaturdashi  tithi (14th day) of Krishna Paksha (the waning phase of Lunar cycle) in the month of Phalgun (February or March).

Significance of Maha Shivratri

There are many tales on this great festival. According to mythology, this is the day when the Lingam form of Lord Shiva appeared for the 1^st time. Some also believe, on this auspicious tithi, Lord Shiva got married to Mata Parvati. Philosophically, Shiva represents Purusha (mindfulness) and Mata Parvati represents Prakriti (nature). These two are the most important elements , which has created the Universe.

The Puja

On the day of Maha Shivratri, devotees keep fast. During the fast, they only can eat fruits and milk. The devotees take a bath and visit temples. In  West Bengal, devotees keep fast and visit a temple to offer their puja to the Lord Shiva. They pour ghee, honey, milk and water on the Shiva Lingam and also offer Bel Fruits. Some also meditate on the day, chanting “Om Namah Shivaya”.

At temples, Puja performs at night. The whole night is divided into 4 phases.

Maha Shivratri Date and Timing in 2022

This year, this auspicious puja has been celebrated on 1^st March. The Chaturdashi tithi will start at 3:16 am on 1^st March and will end at 1:00 am on 2^nd March.