Maha Shivratri is an auspicious Hindu festival dedicated to Lord Shiva. Annually, this festival falls on the 13th night or 14th night of the 11th Hindu month of Phalguna or Maagh (February to March).

Why is Maha Shivratri celebrated?


There are many interesting myths to why this festival is celebrated. Maha Shivratri is believed to be the day when Lord Shiva married Goddess Parvati, uniting two of the greatest forces in the universe.

This festival is extremely meaningful to unmarried Hindu women as worshipping Lord Shiva on this day will help them to obtain a husband like the Lord.



Many married women also perform a hunger fast to appease Goddess Parvati. Goddess Parvati is believed to bless them with marital bliss, fertility and happiness.

Another legend that surrounds Maha Shivratri is that Lord Shiva appeared in the form of the "Lingodbhav Moorti" during midnight of this day and this is the reason behind why devotees stay awake and offer prayers to the Lord.



In homes and in temples, the Shiva Ling is bathed in water, milk and honey. Flowers are also placed around the statue. Offering bael leaves, fruits and rice is considered auspicious during Maha Shivratri.

The day of Maha Shivratri is spent in medication, fasting or singing religious songs of Lord Shiva. Temples are filled with devotees as many believe it would cleanse all of their sins. Negative energy that surrounds devotees will also be transformed into peaceful energies when one worships the Lord on this day.

Astro Ulagam wishes all Hindus a blessed Maha Shivratri!

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