Shiva is the Supreme energy and the one to make every living being breathe. We, human beings, are only able to breathe, eat, walk, and perform our activities because of the power called Shiva. Shiva resides in living as well as non-living entities. He is known as the destroyer, generator, and keeper of every entity available in this universe. Shiva, therefore, drives existence.
Maha Shivratri is a major festival in Sanatana Dharma or Hinduism that’s dedicated to devotion and praying to Lord Shiva. Shivratri comes in the Phalgun month (February to March) on the fourteenth day or Chaturdashi of the Krishna Paksha. This year Shivratri is on February 18, 2023, Saturday. There are some points that you should remember while commemorating this auspicious occasion.
Why is Shivratri celebrated?
There are so many tales related to Shivratri and each one defines a unique identity of Shiva. You will surely learn something from every story. Let’s see one by one –
- One says that Lord Shiva married Goddess Parvati on this day. That’s why this day marks the celebration of sacred union.
- When the Gods and demons were churning the ocean together to obtain nectar that was in the depths, a pot of poison emerged out of the sea. Lord Shiva for saving both the Gods and mankind consumed this poison. The poison was billeted in his throat, turning his throat blue. From then, Shiva is also known as Neelkanth Mahadev. To glorify the savior, Shivratri is celebrated.
- Another legend expresses that as Goddess Ganga was descending from heaven in full strength, Lord Shiva tied her in his knotted locks, and then released her to Earth in form of several streams. This helped to prevent Earth from destruction. As a tribute, people pour water and milk on Shivlinga on this day.
- It is also believed that the formless God Sadashiv emerged in the form of a Lingodhbhav at midnight. This is why people stay awake all night and offer prayers to God.
What you must do?
- If possible, try experiencing a sentinel on Shivratri night. Do not sleep all through the night and contemplate spirituality.
- Listen to the tales of Lord Shiva, sing bhajans, chant mantras, and meditate.
- Visit temple. In most temples, a prayer is conducted throughout the night. You can take participate in the night prayers.
- Perform prayers and puja at your home. Start puja after sunset on Shivratri and do it till sunrise.
- Offer Bel leaves, white flowers, water from the Ganga River, sacred ashes, sandalwood paste, honey, curd, and milk to Shiva. It is an auspicious thing.
- In the end, distribute Prasad, food, clothes, and other things to the poor and needy.
What you must not do?
- Unlike other festivals, Shivratri is not for making merry and feasting. Contemplate the Lord, visit temples, do Shiv puja at home, and spend time in spiritual activities.
- Do not sleep during Shivratri if you are observing a complete fast. Stay vigil throughout the night and sing the divine glories and chant the mantras of the Lord.
- Do not kill the time on Shivratri by watching movies or gaming. Refrain from any kind of luxury. Devote your time only by worshipping the Lord with focus and devotion.
- Never resort to deception and discords. Avoid eating non-vegetarian food. Withhold from alcohol and any other addictive stuff.
What can I eat on Maha Shivratri fast?
- Have fresh whole fruit and juices, milk, herbal tea, yogurt, or buttermilk.
- Tapioca, buckwheat flour, chestnut flour, potatoes, yams, fruits such as bananas, and melons.
- You can prepare some fasting recipes for Maha Shivratri
Which Colour should wear on Shivratri?
Colors help to define feelings. Therefore, you should wear peaceful colors such as green, white, and blue that denote calmness.
How do you keep Shivratri fast?
- Wake up early, if possible during Brahma Muhurat.
- Have a bath and wear washed clothes.
- Do some Dhyana followed by Sankalpa.
- Maintain abstinence and start fasting.
