Mahashivratri meaning the ‘Great night of Shiva’ and one of the most significant festivals in Hinduism, widely devotional and venerated in every corner of India and many parts of the world. Observed every year on the 13th night and 14th day of the dark fortnight, Krishna Paksha in the month of Phalguna, which falls in February or March in the Gregorian calendar. Lord Shiva is known as the destroyer and transformer in the holy trinity, Trimurti. Mahashivratri is a spiritual journey for millions of devotees. It holds deep significance as it marks the convergence of spiritual and cosmic forces.

According to Hindu mythology, Mahashivratri commemorates the day on which Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati were married. Their marriage symbolises union in the masculine and feminine energies as well as creation and harmony in the universe. Another mythological tale linked to Mahashivratri is the Samudra Manthan, the tale of churning the ocean. It is believed that at this time of churning, a deadly poison named ‘Halahala’ appeared and was about to destroy the world. Lord Shiva swallowed it and thus saved the world, his throat turned blue due to which he is known as Neelkanth (the one with the blue throat). Mahashivratri is also known as a night when Lord Shiva had taken this poison for the good of the cosmos to prove his compassion and sacrifice for the benefit of all.

Mahashivratri reflects the importance of disciplining one’s mind and spirit for introspection and self-realisation. Inner peace and search for higher knowledge are some of the lessons taught through Mahashivratri. It implores the devotees to introspect, seek realisation and rise above material desires. The night reminds us that even in darkness, there is light and through devotion and meditation, one can find his enlightenment.

Mahashivratri has different rituals and customs followed by each region and community. Some common observances and rituals include Fasting observed by devotees, who abstain from food and water as a form of self-discipline. Some observe partial fasting, consuming fruits or milk while others may remain completely without food. Since it is a nocturnal festival according to the word ‘Shivratri’ this festival occurs all night. Those who attend listen to mantras, mainly reciting ‘Om Namah Shivaya’, bhajans, songs devotionally sung in his praise, offering prayers and performing meditation. Many believe that being awake during the night of Mahashivratri brings them grace and purifies their minds as well as spirits. The faithful’s worship the Shiva Lingam, the manifestation of Lord Shiva is offered water, milk, honey and bael leaves. It is believed that these offerings help purify the soul as well as gets rid of unwanted energies. Shiva temples host special pujas in the night and before sunrise. Many devotees read or listen to the ‘Shiva Purana’, one of the sacred texts dedicated to Lord Shiva whick describes the glory and significance of Lord Shiva. Devotees also engage in silent reflection and meditation, seeking spiritual growth and enlightenment.

The rituals and festivals celebrated in Kashmir despite various challenges met through time, enjoy immense religious and cultural recognition. Maha Shivaratri is observed by Kashmiri Hindus, especially the Pandit community by fasting, reciting mantras and praying to Lord Shiva. The Shiva Lingam is particularly worshipped and some devotees go to the famous Shankaracharya Temple in Srinagar. The Kashmiri Pandit community has celebrated this festival over centuries by coming together in community gatherings, feasts and sharing cultural performative art. Music forms the core part of the celebration, especially devotional songs and chants of Lord Shiva.

Mahashivratri is extremely popular in Nepal, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and other similar parts of the world. Main Shiva Temples during these days transform into worship sites: Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi, Somnath Temple in Gujarat and Brihadeshwara Temple in Tamil Nadu attract a crowd of pilgrims in hundreds of thousands and millions. Mahashivratri is more than a religious festival, it is an opportunity to engage in deep spiritual practices, renew one’s commitment to personal growth and seek blessings for a prosperous life. It encourages individuals to connect with their inner selves, reflect on their actions and devote their hearts and minds to the divine.

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