Maha Shivaratri/Shivaratri in India

Maha Shivaratri, also known as "The Great Night of Shiva," is a prominent Hindu festival celebrated annually in honor of Lord Shiva, one of the principal deities in Hinduism. The festival falls on the new moon day in the Hindu month of Phalguna, which typically corresponds to February or March in the Gregorian calendar.

History and Significance:

The festival has deep religious significance and several legends associated with it. One popular belief is that it marks the night when Lord Shiva performed the heavenly dance of creation, preservation, and destruction. Another lore suggests that this is the night when Shiva and Parvati got married.

Traditions:

On Maha Shivaratri, devotees observe fasts and hold all-night vigils called "jagrans." Temples are adorned with lights and decorations, and special pujas or rituals are conducted throughout the night.

• Fasting: Devotees often fast throughout the day and night, consuming only fruits, milk, or water.
• Rituals: The ritual worship involves offering items such as milk, honey, ghee (clarified butter), sugar, water, and bael leaves to a Shivling (representation of Lord Shiva).
• Chanting: Chanting of 'Om Namah Shivaya' and other mantras dedicated to Lord Shiva is common.
• Meditation: Many people meditate as it's believed that on Maha Shivaratri, Lord Shiva's energy resonates strongly on earth.

Activities:

People visit temples to offer prayers and some may go on pilgrimage to Jyotirlingams (the 12 sacred shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva). In places like Varanasi (considered a city particularly auspicious for worshiping Shiva), grand celebrations can be seen. Cultural programs like classical dance performances might also be organized as part of festivities.

In essence, Maha Shivaratri is a day devoted to remembering Lord Shiva through meditation on his divine attributes, fasting for purification, offering prayers with dedication, and seeking his blessings for moksha (liberation from the cycle of rebirth).