Maha Shivaratri, one of the most revered festivals among Shaivites, is set to be celebrated on February 26, 2025. The day, marking the auspicious union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, holds significant importance for believers who observe fasts and partake in various rituals dedicated to honoring the Lord.
Devotees around the globe prepare for Maha Shivaratri by adhering to strict fasting practices, known as vrat. This year, the Chaturdashi Tithi begins at 11:08 am on Wednesday and concludes the following day at 8:54 am, offering devotees ample time to celebrate this reverent occasion.
Throughout the night, many followers vigilantly stay awake, engaging in prayers and chanting mantras, as it is believed Lord Shiva performs the 'Tandav'—a cosmic dance representing creation, preservation, and destruction.
On Maha Shivaratri, devotees honor Lord Shiva by applying sandalwood paste to sacred symbols and images. According to pandit Pradeep Mishra, "Mahadev can be pleased by applying sandalwood at seven places." This devotional act is thought to bestow blessings and help ancestors attain liberation, or moksha.
Across India, various temples serve as focal points for the celebrations. For example, the Kal Bhairav Nath Temple in Varanasi is unique as offerings consist solely of alcohol, which is presented to the deity. Here, the priests pour offerings of wine to the Lord and return the empty bottles as prasadam to the devotees.
The Kailash Temple located within the Ellora Caves of Maharashtra is another significant site. Recognized as the largest rock-cut Hindu temple, it showcases impressive carvings and is dedicated expressly to Lord Shiva. The temple, built during the 16th century, attracts thousands each year, especially during Maha Shivaratri.
Another iconic temple is the Lingaraj Temple, known as the largest temple dedicated to Lord Shiva in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. Constructed between 1090-1104 AD, this temple stands proud at 54 meters and is famed for its self-manifested linga, attracting devotees eager for blessings.
The Meenakshi Amman Temple located in Madurai, Tamil Nadu, deserves mention as well; it is dedicated to both Lord Shiva and his consort, Goddess Parvati. What sets this temple apart is the smiling idol of the deity, making it unique within the country.
For those unable to visit temples, celebrating at home remains a popular and heartfelt option. Many devotees prepare special dishes to sustain their energy during the fast. Singhare, or water chestnut flour, becomes the cornerstone for numerous vrat recipes, allowing devotees to fulfill their dietary restrictions without compromising nutrition.
Among the delicacies, Singhare ka Halwa stands out as both nutritious and delicious. Made with simple ingredients such as ghee, sugar, and cardamom, this sweet treat provides energy throughout the fasting day. Another popular item is Singhare ka Aloo puri, crafted from boiled potatoes mixed with Singhare flour, producing crispy, flavorful puris.
For the more adventurous cook, Singhare Pakoda, or fritters, can be prepared by blending water chestnut flour with yogurt, potatoes, and spices before frying until golden brown. This savory snack not only satiates cravings but also adds the festive touch to the day’s celebrations.
With its amalgamation of devotion, food, and traditional festivities, Maha Shivaratri stands as a powerful ceremony for millions, fostering spirituality and cultural connections. Each ritual, verse sung, and prasad shared contributes to the overarching theme of devotion and respect for Lord Shiva, along with the eternal quest for moksha—not just for oneself, but also for one's ancestors.