Maha Shivaratri, meaning 'The Great Night of Shiva', is one of the most significant festivals dedicated to Lord Shiva. Celebrated on the 14th day of the dark fortnight (Krishna Paksha) in the Hindu month of Phalguna (February-March), this festival is observed with great devotion across India and Nepal. It is a night of fasting, prayer, and meditation, where devotees seek the blessings of Lord Shiva for spiritual growth, liberation, and fulfillment of desires.

According to Hindu mythology, Maha Shivaratri marks the night when Lord Shiva performed the cosmic dance of creation, preservation, and destruction (Tandava). It is also believed to be the night when Lord Shiva married Goddess Parvati. The festival is considered especially powerful for spiritual practices, as it is believed that the cosmic energy is at its peak on this night.

Maha Shivaratri is celebrated with great fervor in temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, particularly in places like Varanasi, Ujjain, and Mount Kailash. Devotees observe a strict fast, stay awake all night (Jagran), and perform various rituals to honor Lord Shiva. The festival emphasizes the importance of self-discipline, devotion, and spiritual awakening.

Maha Shivaratri holds immense significance in Hindu mythology. According to the Puranas, this is the night when Lord Shiva manifested as a Lingam (Shiva Linga) to resolve a dispute between Lord Brahma and Lord Vishnu. The festival is also associated with the churning of the ocean (Samudra Manthan), where Lord Shiva consumed the poison (Halahala) to save the universe, turning his throat blue and earning the name Neelkanth.

The festival is considered particularly auspicious for spiritual practices and meditation. It is believed that on this night, the spiritual energy is at its peak, making it easier to connect with the divine. Devotees observe fasts, perform puja, chant mantras, and meditate to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva for spiritual growth, removal of obstacles, and fulfillment of desires.

Maha Shivaratri is also significant for married couples, as it is believed to strengthen marital bonds and bring harmony to relationships. Unmarried individuals pray for a suitable life partner. The festival emphasizes the importance of self-discipline, devotion, and the pursuit of spiritual knowledge. It is a time to let go of negative tendencies and embrace positivity and spiritual growth.

• Observing a strict fast (vrat) throughout the day and night
• Staying awake all night (Jagran) in devotion to Lord Shiva
• Performing Abhishekam (ritual bath) of Shiva Linga with water, milk, honey, and other sacred substances
• Offering Bilva leaves (Bel Patra) to Lord Shiva, which is considered most dear to him
• Chanting 'Om Namah Shivaya' mantra and other Shiva mantras
• Performing Rudra Abhishekam and reading Shiva Purana
• Lighting lamps and incense in temples and homes
• Offering fruits, flowers, and prasad to Lord Shiva
• Meditating and performing yoga on this auspicious night
• Visiting Shiva temples and participating in special puja ceremonies

Various items are offered to Lord Shiva during Maha Shivaratri puja:

• Bilva leaves (Bel Patra): Considered most dear to Lord Shiva, offering 108 or 1008 leaves is highly auspicious
• Water (Ganga Jal): Pure water from the Ganges or clean water for Abhishekam
• Milk, honey, yogurt, and ghee for Abhishekam of Shiva Linga
• Fruits, especially bananas, coconuts, and seasonal fruits
• Flowers, particularly white flowers like jasmine and lotus
• Dhoop (incense) and diya (oil lamp) for lighting