Maha Shivratri 2018: Significance, Date, and how to celebrate

Maha Shivratri is one of the widely celebrated festivals in India. The 'night of Shiva' is devoted to 'the destroyer of evil.' On this day, devotees celebrate in two different ways. They either spend the day going on pilgrimage to one of twelve famous Jyotirlingams or they meditate, introspect, fast, observing stillness while they chant 'Om Namah Shivaya.'

Shivratri comes every month but Maha Shivratri is celebrated only once a year, before the arrival of Spring season, towards the end of February or beginning of March. This year, it will be celebrated on February 13 and will go on until February 14.

Significance of Maha Shivratri

According to Hindu mythology, there are several legends attached to this special night. One legend says that this is the day when Lord Shiva performs Taandava, a heavenly dance of creation, preservation, and destruction. Another says, on this day, Lord Shiva drank Halahal, a poison, that took out all the negativity to protect the world. One legend says that this is the day when Shiva and Parvati got married.

Whatever be the reason, Shiva devotees celebrate the occasion with fervour.

How to celebrate 

Those who are fasting have to take bath with water boiled with black sesame seeds to wash away impurities. Put on fresh clothe and visit Lord Shiva temple to perform a sacred bathing ritual of Shiva Linga. Offer Bilva leaves and do the aarti.

Unlike other fasting rituals, the feast doesn't follow puja. The fast continues all through the day and the night.

Devotees observe all night vigil chanting 'Om Namah Shivaya.' They also sing bhajans and songs. On the following morning, devotees break their fast with the prasad offered to Lord Shiva.