Maha Shivratri
Guide to the date, history, cultural origins and celebration traditions of Maha Shivratri in India.
History & Origins of Maha Shivratri
Maha Shivratri is a sacred festival dedicated to Lord Shiva, celebrating his divine marriage to Goddess Parvati. According to cosmic lore, it also commemorates the night Shiva performed the 'Tandava' (cosmic dance of creation, preservation, and destruction) and saved the universe by drinking the halahala poison.
How It Is Observed & Celebrated
Devotees observe a strict day-and-night fast, perform ritual bathing of the Shiva Linga with milk and honey, offer wood apple leaves (bilva patra), and keep a night vigil (jagaran) chanting the sacred mantra 'Om Namah Shivaya'.
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