Maha Shivratri is one of the most prominent Hindu festivals that is dedicated to the worship of Lord Shiva. The festival is celebrated on the fourteenth day of the first half of the month of Phalguna, as per the Hindu calendar. It is a night of devotion and meditation where devotees observe fast and offer prayers to Mahadev. Scroll on to know more about this festival.
Why Is Maha Shivratri Celebrated?
Maha Shivratri, or the ‘Great Night of Shiva’, is celebrated to commemorate the marriage of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. It is believed that after waiting for ages and going through several trials, Goddess Parvati was finally able to impress Lord Shiva, and they were united.
According to another legend, this is the night when Lord Shiva performs Tandava, the heavenly dance of creation, preservation and destruction, aligning all the positive cosmic energies in the world. Unlike most festivals that are celebrated during the day, Maha Shivratri is celebrated at night. This festival is all about introspective focus, fasting, meditation, self-study, social harmony, and spreading spiritual energies.
Also Read: Kalashtami 2025: Significance, Dates, Rituals & All You Need To Know
Date And Muhurat For Puja
According to the Hindu calendar, Maha Shivratri is observed on the fourteenth day of the first half (the day before the new moon) of the lunar month of Phalguna. This year, Maha Shivratri will be celebrated on February 26, which is also the last day of Maha Kumbh Mela.
As per the Drik Panchang, the Chaturdashi Tithi will begin at 11:08 AM on February 26 and end at 8:54 AM on February 27. Here are all the important muhurats to keep in mind –
Nishita Kaal Puja Time (February 27) – 12:08 AM to 12:58 AM
Shivaratri Parana Time (February 27) – 06:47 AM to 8:45 AM
Ratri First Prahar Puja Time (February 26) – 6:19 PM to 9:26 PM
Ratri Second Prahar Puja Time (February 27) – 9:26 PM to 12:34 AM
Ratri Third Prahar Puja Time (February 27) – 12:34 AM to 3:41 AM
Ratri Fourth Prahar Puja Time (February 27) – 3:41 AM to 6:48 AM
Rituals To Keep In Mind
On Maha Shivratri, devotees usually keep a fast and only consume sattvik foods. They have fruits and water throughout the fasting period and end it with sattvik food only. If you’re fasting, it is advised to wake up early, take a bath, clean the puja area, and perform an Abhishek of the Shiva idol or Shivling. This Abhishek is performed with milk, water, honey, ghee, curd, bel patra, flowers, and sandalwood paste. During the day, read bhajans and mantras about Lord Shiva and visit the temple. If you can stay awake at night, then take part in Jagrans or sit at home and chant Shiva mantras or his name.
Also Read: Maharishi Dayananad Saraswati Jayanti: Date, Significance & All You Need To Know
How do you celebrate Maha Shivratri? Let us know in the comments.
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva (representative image)
For more such snackable content, interesting discoveries and the latest updates on food, travel and experiences in your city, download the Curly Tales App. Download HERE.