Mahashivratri is one of the most important Hindu festivals celebrated with great enthusiasm and devotion all over India. It is celebrated in honour of Lord Shiva and Parvati, one of the three main deities of Hinduism. Mahashivratri is celebrated on the 13th night or 14th day of the Hindu month of Phalgun, which usually falls in February or March. It is a day of fasting, prayer, and worship for many Hindus, and is believed to bring good luck and prosperity.
History of Mahashivratri
The festival of Mahashivratri has been celebrated since ancient times and is mentioned in the Puranas, the ancient Hindu scriptures. According to one popular legend, it is believed that on this day, Lord Shiva, the destroyer of evil, performed the ‘Tandava’, a cosmic dance
of creation and destruction. It is believed that on this day, Lord Shiva drank the poison of the universe to save the world from destruction. Another popular legend associated with Mahashivratri is that it was on this day that Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati got married.
When to celebrate Mahashivratri
Mahashivratri is celebrated on the 13th night or 14th day of the Hindu month of Phalgun, which usually falls in February or March. The festival is celebrated for one day and one night, and is observed by fasting and praying.In 2024 it will be celebrated on 8th March.
Significance of Mahashivratri
Mahashivratri is a festival of great significance for Hindus. It is believed that on this day, Lord Shiva, the destroyer of evil, performed the ‘Tandava’, a cosmic dance of creation and destruction. It is also believed that on this day, Lord Shiva drank the poison of the universe to save the world from destruction. This is why Mahashivratri is also known as the ‘Night of Shiva’.
How to celebrate Mahashivratri
Mahashivratri is celebrated with great enthusiasm and devotion all over India. People observe a strict fast on this day and spend the night in prayer and worship. Hindus visit temples dedicated to Lord Shiva and offer prayers, flowers, and fruits. They also chant mantras and sing devotional songs in praise of Lord Shiva.
On this day, people light lamps and perform special pujas to seek blessings from Lord Shiva. In some parts of India, people also participate in processions and perform traditional dances in honor of Lord Shiva.
Summary
Mahashivratri is one of the most important Hindu festivals celebrated with great enthusiasm and devotion all over India. It is celebrated in honor of Lord Shiva, one of the three main deities of Hinduism. Mahashivratri is celebrated on the 13th night or 14th day of the Hindu month of Phalgun, which usually falls in February or March. It is a day of fasting, prayer, and worship for many Hindus, and is believed to bring good luck and prosperity. People observe a strict fast on this day and spend the night in prayer and worship. Hindus visit temples dedicated to Lord Shiva and offer prayers, flowers, and fruits. They also chant mantras and sing devotional songs in praise of Lord Shiva.
You can explore other festivals such as Pongal and Gudi Padwa.