Mahashivratri, one of the most celebrated Hindu festivals, marks the marriage of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. This auspicious occasion will be observed on Wednesday, February 26, 2025, and preparations are already underway among devotees who wish to honor Lord Shiva with dedicated rituals and fasting.
During Mahashivratri, numerous rituals take place, each imbued with deep significance. The festival is celebrated by many devotees who keep fasts, conduct specific puja rituals, and engage collectively at temples and homes to invoke divine blessings.
Devotees start the day with cleansing, bathing to purify themselves, and adorning new clothes. Setting up the puja is another important ritual; participants usually place a wooden plank and then place either an idol or Shiva Lingam where the rituals will be performed. This sacred space is adorned with fresh fruits, flowers, and leaves, particularly the bael leaves, which are especially favored by Lord Shiva.
One of the main acts on this day involves Abhishekam, the ritual of bathing the Shiva Lingam with five sacred items including milk, curd, honey, ghee, and sugar. These offerings are said to be highly purifying and believed to appease Lord Shiva.
Among the rituals, mantra chanting is fundamental. Devotees invoke Lord Shiva’s blessings reciting the "Mahamrityunjaya Mantra" or "Om Namah Shivaya." This chanting not only deepens one’s devotion but is also considered powerful for shedding negativity.
Aarti, which is the ritual of lighting lamps and singing devotional songs, traditionally concludes the worship. The song "Jai Shiv Omkara" is often recited loudly, adding to the festivity and emotional connection with the divine. These actions embody the essence of Mahashivratri—devotion, reverence, and deep spirituality.
Fasting is another key component of Mahashivratri, and various forms are adopted by devotees. Some choose the Nirjala Vrat, observing complete fast without food or water, showcasing utmost devotion and willpower. Others may engage in Falahar Vrat, where minimal food such as fruits and milk are consumed, aligning with traditional fasting practices.
Preparation for fasting begins days prior to the festival. Devotees are encouraged to rest well, consume nutritious foods, and mentally prepare for the observance. Reciting Shiva mantras and meditation clear the mind, facilitating a stronger connection to the divine on this auspicious night.
Interestingly, there are items which are prohibited from being offered to Lord Shiva on this day. Turmeric, which is otherwise considered auspicious, is banned from the offerings as it symbolizes female energy, not aligning with the potency of Shiva’s form. Similarly, tulsi leaves, which hold great importance, are not to be offered as they are associated with the demon king Jalandhar, who was slain by Shiva.
Narials (coconuts) and red flowers also fall under this list of taboo offerings. Coconuts, representing the goddess Lakshmi, should not be placed before Shiva, and red flowers, representing aggression, are also eschewed. Only white flowers, which epitomize peace and devotion, should decorate the Shiva Lingam.
The day progresses with various rituals at specified times until Nishita Kaal Puja, held between 12:09 AM and 12:59 AM on February 27. This is considered the most auspicious moment for prayer, and numerous devotees will visit temples to participate or will perform rituals at home.
Before breaking the fast, which takes place between 6:48 AM and 8:54 AM on February 27, it's customary to engage one last moment of prayer and reflection. The transition out of fasting is marked with modest meals, observing care to continue the sanctity of the practices engaged over the last night.
The significance of Mahashivratri extends beyond the rituals; it symbolizes the balance of Shakti (energy) and Shiva (consciousness), delineated by the union of divine forces. Through the fasting and puja, devotees not only seek blessings for material and emotional well-being but also aspire for enlightenment and inner peace.
Overall, Mahashivratri is not merely about abstaining from food or performing rituals; it is about deepening one’s commitment to spirituality, fostering community, and merging one’s energy with the divine through the extraordinary grace of Lord Shiva.