Maha Shivratri happens on the fourteenth day after the full moon in the month of Falgun. It’s a big day for people who believe in Lord Shiva. They look forward to it every year. This day is special because it represents the coming together of Shiva and Shakti.
Let’s see when it falls and the best times to celebrate it in the year 2024.
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Maha Shivaratri Muhurta
- Maha Shivaratri on Friday, March 8, 2024
- Nishita Kaal Puja Time – 12:07 AM to 12:56 AM, March 9
- Duration – 00 Hours 49 Mins
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Significance of Maha Shivaratri:
- Celebrating Lord Shiva: This night marks the convergence of Shiva and Shakti, representing the union of consciousness and energy. Devotees pay homage to Lord Shiva, seeking blessings for spiritual growth, overcoming ignorance, and achieving inner peace.
- Marriage of Shiva and Parvati: According to legends, Maha Shivaratri commemorates the celestial wedding of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.
- Overcoming Darkness: Symbolically, the night signifies overcoming the darkness of ignorance and negativity within ourselves.
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Celebrating Maha Shivaratri:
- One day before Shivaratri Vratam, usually on Trayodashi, devotees should eat only once.
- On Shivaratri day, after completing morning rituals, devotees should pledge (Sankalp) to observe a full-day fast and eat the next day.
- During this pledge (Sankalp), devotees commit to self-determination throughout the fasting period, seeking Lord Shiva’s blessings for a successful completion.
- Hindu fasts are strict, and people seek God’s blessings before starting them to finish successfully.
- On Shivaratri day, devotees should take a second bath in the evening before performing Shiva Puja or visiting a temple.
- Shiva Puja should be performed during the night, and devotees should break their fast the next day after bathing.
- Devotees should break their fast between sunrise and before the end of Chaturdashi Tithi (the fourteenth lunar day) to gain maximum benefits.
- Some believe that the fast should only be broken after the Chaturdashi Tithi is over, while others believe that both Shiva Puja and breaking the fast should occur within the Chaturdashi Tithi.
- Shivaratri puja can be performed once or four times during the night, with the night divided into four parts called Prahar for those who perform Shiva Puja four times.
Whether you’re a devout follower or simply curious about Indian culture, Maha Shivaratri offers a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of devotion and spirituality. Visit your local Shiva temple, participate in community gatherings, or simply observe the day with quiet reflection. Remember, the true essence of the festival lies in connecting with your inner self and seeking blessings for a brighter future.
Happy Maha Shivaratri!
