Shivaratri
According to Hindu mythology, Lord Shiva is the god of destruction. He is also known as Mahashiva, and his symbol is a lingam. The month of November is dedicated to Lord Shiva, and it is called Maha Shivaratri, which means ‘Great Night’ in Sanskrit. This festival commemorates Lord Shiva’s birth and celebrates the triumph of good over evil. According to Hindu mythology, once every year on this day, Brahma creates the universe from nothingness by creating several deities, including Lord Vishnu (the preserver), Goddess Lakshmi (the goddess of wealth), and other gods.
The importance of Maha Shivaratri for us is that we can learn about our self-worth and how we should be treating others. We can also get rid of our negative thoughts by doing some rituals like fasting or offering prayers to Lord Shiva.
- Another important thing about this festival is that it helps us stay healthy because we have to stay awake all night long without any food or water, which gives us energy throughout the whole night to perform various rituals during this period like bathing in River Ganges or offering prayers to our ancestors who are believed dead in heaven but still alive on earth!
- Hindus observe Mahashivaratri, also known as Shravan Navami (or Shravana Navami). It falls in the month of Shravan, which is usually between July and August. Mahashivaratri marks the start of the Hindu lunar year and is celebrated on the night before the new moon.
- The festival celebrates Lord Shiva, who represents stability and strength. It is believed that Shiva’s grace can make all things strong and beautiful.
- The word “Mahashivaratri” means “greater than Shiva,” which refers to how important this day is in Hinduism. In fact, it is regarded as so important that all Hindus who wish to practice their religion must fast on this day.
- In addition to fasting, people also perform rituals such as singing songs praising Lord Shiva and praying for good health and prosperity throughout the year
- Maha Shivaratri is a festival celebrated by Hindus. It falls on the 14th day of the bright half of the moon in the month of Maagha (January/February). The festival marks Lord Shiva’s victory over demons, which according to legend occurred when he drank poison from a cup given by Goddess Parvati.
- The fast during Maha Shivaratri is called Shukla Paksha Durga Puja, where devotees worship Durga (Shakti) for ten days. On this day, devotees fast and worship at various temples across India and abroad.
- The significance of fasting during Maha Shivaratri is that it cleanses one’s body and soul from all sins. It also helps one understand God’s power better and gain wisdom from Him.
