Today Maha Shivratri Day! May Lord Shiva shower the world with love and peace

Another legend associated with Maha Shivratri is the story of the union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati 

Chanting the “Om Namah Shivaya” mantra is considered to be very powerful on Maha Shivratri

• The festival is observed by fasting, praying and offering devotion to Lord Shiva
• Fasting on Shivratri is considered to be extremely auspicious and is believed to bring blessings and fulfillment of desires
• Lord Shiva protects his devotees from negative and evil spirits

Some of the common rituals performed during Maha Shivratri include fasting, staying awake all night, offering prayers and offerings to Lord Shiva, and chanting mantras dedicated to him

Shivratri, also known as Maha Shivratri or Maha Shivarathri (Tamil), is a Hindu festival that is celebrated annually in honour of Lord Shiva, one of the main deities in Hinduism. The festival is observed by fasting, praying and offering devotion to Lord Shiva. Fasting on Shivratri is considered to be extremely auspicious and is believed to bring blessings and fulfillment of desires.

This Hindu festival celebrates the power of Lord Shiva

The significance of Maha Shivratri is rooted in Hindu mythology and is associated with several legends. According to one legend, it is said that Lord Shiva saved the world from darkness and ignorance by drinking the poisonous elixir that was produced during the churning of the ocean by the gods and demons. The day is observed to celebrate this event and to honour Lord Shiva’s victory over evil. 

• Offerings: Devotees, both in temples and homes, honour Him by anointing the Shivlinga (Shivalingam) with offerings such as milk, curd, fruits, Vibhuti, tender coconut, ghee, panchamrita, honey, sandal paste, sugarcane juice, water and Vilva leaves, in a ritual known as “Rudra Abhisheka”. This is considered to be very auspicious on Maha Shivratri and is said to please Lord Shiva. The offerings symbolise purity and devotion.
•  Mantra chanting: Chanting the “Om Namah Shivaya” mantra is considered to be very powerful on Maha Shivratri and is believed to bring blessings and fulfillment of desires. Mantras resonate through the air during these offerings, infusing the atmosphere with Spiritual energy. 
• Pooja: Performing a pooja (worship ceremony) to Lord Shiva on Maha Shivratri is considered to be very auspicious. Set up the puja by placing a picture or idol of Lord Shiva, along with a Shiv Linga or Shiva Yantra on a pedestal or platform. The pooja involves lighting a lamp, offering flowers, fruits and incense, and reciting prayers and mantras.
• Visiting a temple: Visiting a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva on Maha Shivratri and offering prayers and offerings is considered to be a very auspicious act.
• Helping others: Performing acts of kindness and helping others is considered to be a way to please Lord Shiva.
• Cleanliness: Cleanse yourself by taking a bath and wear clean clothes. Clean the puja room or designated area where you will perform the pooja.
• Mantra Chanting: Chant mantras like Om Namah Shivaya or Mahamrityunjaya Mantra. You can also recite the Shiva Chalisa or other prayers.
• Abhishek: Perform Abhishek, which involves pouring milk, honey, or water over the Shiv Linga while chanting mantras.
• Aarti: Conclude the puja by performing aarti, which involves lighting a lamp and waving it in front of the deity.

Despite His grandeur, Lord Shiva is said to be content with even the humblest offerings such as milk or sweet potatoes, reflecting His benevolence and approachability.