Mahashivratri, also known as the “Night of Lord Shiva,” is a significant Hindu festival celebrated annually in honor of Lord Shiva. This year, Mahashivratri falls on 25th February 2023, and devotees across the world are gearing up to celebrate this auspicious occasion.
The festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm and devotion, and it is marked by several traditions and rituals. The following are some of the most significant traditions and rituals associated with Mahashivratri:
- Fasting: Fasting is an essential aspect of Mahashivratri. Devotees observe a day-long fast and break it only after performing the Maha Shivaratri puja.
- Puja and rituals: Devotees visit Shiva temples to offer milk, flowers, and bael leaves to the Shiva Linga, which represents Lord Shiva. They also light diya and incense sticks and chant mantras.
- All-night vigil: Many devotees stay up all night and engage in prayers, meditation, and other devotional activities.
- Wearing new clothes: Devotees usually wear new clothes on the occasion of Mahashivratri, as it is considered auspicious.
- Offering fruits and sweets: It is a tradition to offer fruits and sweets to Lord Shiva and distribute them among family and friends.