Maha Shivratri is being observed on Friday, February 24. The festival is observed to signify the many cosmic events that happened in the life of Lord Shiva on the very same day.
According to North Indian calendar, Masik Shivratri in the month of Phalguna is known as Maha Shivaratri and according to the South Indian calendar, Chaturdashi Tithi during Krishna Paksha in the month of Magha is celebrated as Maha Shivratri. It's the same day, but because of the difference of naming convention of the lunar calendar, they seem to appear in different months.
Shivratri is celebrated for following reasons -
1. According to Hinduism, it is believed that by the grace of Lord Brahma, during the creation of the universe, Lord Shiva was incarnated as Lord Rudra on this day.
2. On this day, according to the legends, Lord Shiva married Goddess Parvati. It is the festival of the convergence of Shiva and Shakti.
3. It is believed that on this day, Lord Shiva performed the Tandava for the first time.
4. Legends also have it that on this day, Lord Shiva drank the poison that surfaced during the Samudra Manthan (churning of the great ocean) to save the world from total annihilation.
5. It is also believed to be the most favourite day of Lord Shiva.
Devotees of Lord Shiva observe a day and night long fast to mark the occasion. Some of them also keep a night-long vigil while chanting various Shiv Mantras and Stotram.
On this day, devotees worship the Shiva Lingam. They bathe the idols with water, milk, and honey. Bel Patra and flowers are offered. In North India, some devotees consume Bhang and Thandai as Prasad.
Maha Shivratri Muhurta
The Chaturdashi tithi will begin at 9.38 pm on February 24 and it will end at 9.20 pm on February 25.
Nishita Kaal Puja Time = 12:08 am to 12:59 am on Feb 25
Ratri First Prahar Puja Time = 6:13 pm to 9:23 pm
Ratri Second Prahar Puja Time = 21:23 pm to 12:33 am
Ratri Third Prahar Puja Time = 12:33 am to 3:44 am
Ratri Fourth Prahar Puja Time = 3:44 am to 6:54 am
On 25th, Maha Shivaratri Parana Time = 06:54 am to 3:24 pm
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