Maha Shivratri 2024: Why do we celebrate the festival?

The festival of Lord Shiva, Maha Shivratri will be celebrated on March 8, 2024

Edited By: Sonia Dham

Last Updated : 26 February 2024, 04:26 PM IST

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Maha Shivaratri is one of the significant festivals celebrated by Hindus. The day is also called ‘The Great Night of Lord Shiva’. This year, the day will be celebrated on March 8, 2024.

According to Hindu Panchang, one can perform puja in Shubh Muhurata:

Nishita Kaal Puja Time – March 9, 12:07 AM to 12:56 AM
Duration - 00 Hours 49 Mins
Shivaratri Parana Time – March 9, 06:37 AM to 03:29 PM
Chaturdashi Tithi Begins - 09:57 PM on Mar 08, 2024
Chaturdashi Tithi Ends - 06:17 PM on Mar 09, 2024

Significance of Maha Shivratri

Marriage of Shiva and Parvati:

This is a widely popular belief, with Maha Shivaratri marking the sacred union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. It symbolizes the union of consciousness (Lord Shiva) and energy (Goddess Parvati), considered essential for creation.

The Tandava Dance:

Another significant reason is the belief that on this night, Lord Shiva performed his cosmic dance, the Tandava. This dance represents the recurring nature of creation, preservation, and destruction in the universe.

Overcoming Darkness and Ignorance:

Maha Shivaratri also signifies overcoming darkness and ignorance in life and the world. Devotees observe this day through fasting, prayers, and meditation, aiming for spiritual enlightenment and self-realization.

Other Mythological Significance:

There are other mythological interpretations associated with Maha Shivaratri:

Consuming the Poison:

One story narrates how Shiva drank the poison that emerged during the churning of the ocean, protecting the world from its destructive power.

Appearance of the Lingodbhava Moorthi:

Another belief suggests that the formless God Sadashiv manifested as the Lingodbhava Moorthi on this night, prompting devotees to stay awake and offer prayers throughout the night.

Personal Significance:

While these are some of the broader reasons for celebrating Maha Shivaratri, individuals may find personal meaning in the festival based on their beliefs and aspirations.

Observing fast on the day of Maha Shivratri:

Fasting reduces mental unrest and detoxifies the body. A calm mind finds it easy to enter into meditation. As a result, fasting on Maha Shivratri helps with meditation and body detoxification. It is advised to fast while consuming fruits or foods that are simple to digest. Find out more about the rules for the Maha Shivratri fast.

Overall, Maha Shivaratri is a time for Hindus to:

Celebrate the divine union and cosmic dance of Lord Shiva.
Reflect on overcoming darkness and ignorance in their lives.
Engage in spiritual practices like fasting, prayers, and meditation.
Seek blessings and express devotion to Lord Shiva.

(Disclaimer: This information has been collected from various mediums like astrologers, almanacs, beliefs or religious scriptures and has been presented to you. Please consult experts while making related decisions. TopIndianNews does not hold accountability for this information.)