Mahashivratri 2022: Why is it Celebrated ?Story , Significance and Rituals, Written By-Rashmi Vajpayee
In 2022, the festival of Maha Shivratri falls on Tuesday, 1st March. Maha Shivratri is one of the most auspicious Hindu festivals celebrated annually in the glory of Lord Shiva. Shivratri is a combination of two words, Shiv and Ratri, where Shiv means ‘Lord Shiva’ and Ratri means Night.
Shivratri signifies the night of Lord Shiva. Every year, Mahashivratri is celebrated as the conjunction of the powers of Shiva and Shakti. On this day devotees worship Lord Shiva, observe a strict fast, and do various religious activities to delight Lord Shiva.
According to the famous legend, the day celebrates the marriage of Shiva with his companion Goddess Shakti (Parvati). Lord Shiva lived like a hermit after his wife Sati’s demise. He was engaged in meditation and undertook penance. Sati was reborn as Parvati to win her husband’s love again. She endured tough penance for years and, on noticing her devotion, Shiva accepted her as his wife. They wedded on the 14th day of the dark fortnight in Phalguna.
Maha Shivratri is considered to be the conjunction of Lord Shiva and his Goddess Shakti — the balancing of the universe by the masculine and feminine energies. According to legend, Maha Shivratri observes the day Shiva came into being in ‘linga’ form for the first time.
Devotees offer water, milk, dhatura, bhaang, akwan flowers, and Bael leaves on Shivlinga and worship Lord Shiva. Fruits and sweets are also offered by people on Mahashivratri to please Lord Shiva and gain his blessings. It is said that the person who offers Bel Patra to the Shivling with dedication, Lord Shiva bestows him/her with whatever he/she wants.
Mahashivratri Fasting Rituals-
On this day, devotees observe fast to seek Lord Shiva’s blessings. On the day of Shivratri, devotees observe a full-day fast and eat only on the next day.
Some devotees observe a ‘Phallar’ fast that concerns eating only fruits and milk. Kuttu is a popular ingredient utilized during fasts. Devotees may also consume a light Sattvik meal on Mahashivratri. Sabudana and Kuttu are famous ingredients used in Fast-friendly recipes.
Originally published at https://indianculturecivilization.blogspot.com.
