Maha Shivratri 2025, the holy festival dedicated to Lord Shiva, will be observed on February 26, celebrating the divine union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Devotees across the globe will partake in prayers and rituals to seek blessings from Shiva during this auspicious occasion.
This significant festival, known as the "Great Night of Shiva," falls on the 14th day of the waning moon within the Hindu months of Phalguna or Magha. It holds deep importance as it symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness and the opportunity for personal reflection and growth.
During Maha Shivratri, devotees typically observe strict fasting rules known as "vrat." Some choose the nirjala vrat, abstaining from food and water completely, whereas others follow the phalahar vrat, consuming only specific sattvic foods throughout the day to maintain energy levels.
There are several foods recommended for devotees to consume during the fast. One of the most popular choices is makhana, or fox nuts. These crunchy, nutritious snacks can be enjoyed roasted with rock salt or incorporated with milk and jaggery to make kheer. Makhana is excellent for satisfying hunger without weighing down the body.
Another favorite fasting item is sabudana, or tapioca pearls, known for their carbohydrate-rich content. This ingredient helps provide sustained energy, with dishes like sabudana khichdi, vadas, and kheer being common during this time.
Fruits such as bananas, apples, and pomegranates are not only refreshing but also packed with natural sugars, providing the necessary energy boost to help see devotees through their day of fasting. Meanwhile, dry fruits like almonds, cashews, and raisins offer additional nourishment.
For dairy lovers, options like milk, curd, and paneer can keep practitioners feeling satiated and hydrated. These products are considered pure and beneficial for maintaining the health of those fasting. Coconut water also deserves special mention as it helps replenish electrolytes and hydration after the fasting period.
Interestingly, potatoes can also be consumed during Maha Shivratri fasts, provided they are prepared without onions, garlic, or any strong spices. Dishes can include aloo tikki or aloo pakora seasoned simply with sendha namak for flavor.
Performing the puja becomes central as well, with devotees often participating in rituals to venerate the Shiva Lingam. Rituals are performed with offerings of water, milk, honey, and bel patra leaves, considered sacred to Lord Shiva. Morning prayers will commence with traditional customs, culminating with the evening's celebrations.
Leading up to the festivities at Kapaleshwar Temple, arrangements to accommodate the increased number of devotees are also noteworthy. The temple will remain open for 24 hours, allowing continuous darshan throughout the day. According to Chitra Rajguru, the temple will distribute more than 51,000 Rudraksha beads alongside prasad, including Rajgira laddus and sabudana khichdi.
Security measures will be heightened, including 24-hour CCTV surveillance and crowd control to allow each devotee to access the temple within 15 minutes. The temple area will also be beautifully decorated to harbor the festival spirit, creating a vibrant atmosphere.
Such observances remind devotees of the significance of Mahashivratri, which encourages self-reflection, commitment to spirituality, and collective celebration. Those fasting this year will find comfort and sustenance with the right food choices to support their energy levels throughout their devotion.
Breaking the fast is traditionally seen as significant too. It's recommended to enjoy wholesome, nourishing foods post-fast to help reset the body after its day of austerity. Overall, Maha Shivratri 2025 is anticipated to be a time of deep devotion, community, and celebration as individuals seek Lord Shiva's blessings for prosperity, health, and inner peace.