Maha Shivaratri 2024: The Maha Shivaratri festival is observed during the Krishna Paksha of the Phalguna month, which annually yields a unique date. It occurs this year on February 18. After midnight the following day, puja is commemorated with festivals, feasts, and more. Additionally, numerous individuals fast on this day. Adherents of the Lingayat sect in South India bestow offerings upon their gurus or spiritual advisers.
The term ‘Maha Shivaratri’ literally translates to ‘the Great Night of Shiva,’ suggesting that Shiva likely executed the Tandava Nritya, a ritualistic dance encompassing devastation, creation, and preservation. It is also said that on that night, Shiva, to save the world, ingested the poison of negativity and held it in his esophagus; as a result, his throat turned blue. An alternative theory posits that Shiva and Parvati reunited on this day.
The chronicle of Maha Shivaratri
A significant Hindu festival, Maha Shivaratri, is observed in reverence of the deity Shiva. It also denotes the nocturnal spectacle in which Lord Shiva executes the celestial choreography of formation, sustenance, and annihilation. Although there are twelve Shivaratri in a year, Maha Shivaratri is particularly auspicious. The convergence of Shiva and Shakti, the masculine and feminine energies that maintain equilibrium in the world, occurs on this night.
This is a solemn Hindu festival commemorating the triumph over ignorance and darkness in one’s life. It is designated for self-reflection and letting go of obstacles that hinder progress and development. It is a day during which individuals can strive to relinquish their transgressions, commence a path of righteousness, and ultimately achieve moksha on the day of judgment.
The celebrations are observed throughout India per regional customs. Some people perform puja throughout the night, while others celebrate early in the morning. Even more, devotees observe a 24-hour fast, which they only break the following day following a cleansing. This fast serves as a trial of one’s resolve rather than as an opportunity to obtain blessings. Alexander Cunningham recorded in 1864 a fair and dance festival commemorating Maha Shivaratri at the Khajuraho Shiva temples, where Shaiva pilgrims pitched tents for miles around the complex.
In addition to being observed outside of India, Nepal also designates Maha Shivaratri as a national holiday. The primary observance transpires within the Pashupatinath temple. Hindus even in Pakistan visit Shiva temples, with the Umerkot Shiv Mandir hosting the most significant festival for three days.
Thus, Maha Shivaratri is widely celebrated with great fervor among Hindus worldwide, who regard it as an exceptionally sacred occasion.
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FAQs on Maha Shivaratri 2024
How does Maha Shivratri appear in Hinduism?
The most significant festival of the year for devotees of the Hindu deity Shiva is Maha Shivaratri.
At what hour does Maha Shivaratri commence?
Midnight is when the Masik Shivaratri puja, also known as Nishita Kaal, is performed. Performing ‘Abhishek’ for Lord Shiva or the Shiva Lingam is the initial step.
What hue is appropriate attire for the occasion of Shivratri?
During the morning of Maha Shivratri, devout individuals bathe and don garments colored green, which is considered auspicious, before proceeding to the Shiva temple to engage in prayer.
Maha Shivaratri 2024 Activities
Engage in a frenetic
At least a hundred devotees fast during Maha Shivaratri. On this particular day, only fruits, milk, and dishes containing fast-compliant ingredients are deemed permissible. It is recommended to abstain from all meat, alcohol, and tobacco consumption.
Observe a Shiva sanctuary
During the nocturnal puja, visit a nearby Shiva temple and absorb all the positive vibrational energies. This is an unparalleled experience. Make supplications to Lord Shiva while assuming an oath to improve one’s character and adhere to the path of righteousness.
Make time for introspection.
In addition to engaging in puja and rituals, one may also dedicate time for introspection during the solemn festival of Maha Shivaratri. Recognize the impact that your actions have on both yourself and others. If deemed necessary, implement appropriate corrective actions.
Five essential facts concerning Lord Shiva
The Trimurti
Lord Shiva is one of the Trimurti, which consists of the three paramount Hindu deities: Brahma, the creator; Vishnu, the preserver; and Shiva, the destroyer.
The consort of Lord Shiva
Parvati, the Hindu deity associated with matrimony, fertility, splendor, devotion, progeny, divine prowess, and power, is the spouse of Lord Shiva.
Anterior to Lord Shiva
Known for possessing a third eye, Lord Shiva frequently has it closed when he is gazing inward.
Jewelry of a cobra
A cobra necklace symbolizes the strength and potency of the supreme deity Lord Shiva.
The Shaivism faith
The devotion to Shiva is referred to as Shaivism.
MAHA SHIVARATRI DATES
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | March 8 | Friday |
| 2025 | February 26 | Wednesday |
| 2026 | February 15 | Sunday |
