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Mahasivarathri is an important Hindu festival celebrated annually in Sri Lanka, dedicated to Lord Shiva, one of the principal deities of Hinduism. This sacred night marks the day when Lord Shiva is believed to have performed the divine dance of creation, preservation, and destruction.
The festival's origins are rooted in various legends. One popular belief is that Mahasivarathri is the night when Shiva performed the Tandava Nritya or the dance of primordial creation, preservation, and destruction. Another story suggests that this is the day when Shiva saved the world from darkness and ignorance by appearing as a Linga, a symbol representing the universe. It is also considered an auspicious time for overcoming darkness and ignorance.
On Mahasivarathri Day:
Fasting: Devotees observe a strict fast in honor of Lord Shiva, often consuming only fruits and milk.
Vigil: Many people stay awake throughout the night (Jagaran) as it is believed that keeping vigil brings them closer to spiritual awareness.
Prayers and Poojas: Special poojas are conducted in temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. The pooja rituals involve abhishekam (bathing of the Shivling) with milk, honey, water, and other sacred offerings.
Offerings: Believers offer fruits, flowers, and bel leaves to Shivlingams at temples or their homes.
Chanting: The chanting of 'Om Namah Shivaya', considered a powerful mantra associated with Shiva, resonates throughout the temples.
Hindu devotees across Sri Lanka visit prominent Shiva temples such as Koneswaram Temple in Trincomalee or Muneswaram Temple in Chilaw. They participate in religious activities including processions (perahera), cultural performances related to stories of Lord Shiva, and community services like feeding the poor.
Mahasivarathri serves as a time for reflection on ethics and morality for those observing it in Sri Lanka. It's a spiritual junction that emphasizes introspection, meditation on self-awareness, forgiveness and understanding among communities celebrating this profound occasion.
