spend the Maha Ratri With Lord Shiva

Unlike other festivals associated with Hinduism, Mahashivratri is a night dedicated largely to prayers and not to celebrations. Of course, when Lord Shiva is worshipped there is bliss all around but that bliss is of self realization.

The popular belief is that Shiva, the formless Brahman, appeared in a form on Mahashivratri day. On the Mahashivratri night Lord Shiva is worshipped in a special form of Linga called ‘Lingodabhavamurti.’ It is a lingam in the form of fire which has neither a beginning nor an end. It must be noted here that ‘linga’ means ‘sign.’

And it is merely an attempt to capture the formless Brahman.

Devotees observe fast and avoid sleeping on the day as it is believed that Shiva appeared at night in the form of Lingodabhavamurti.

How to celebrate Shivaratri?

Shivratri is the day when rituals and worship are given more importance. There is no fun or merrymaking as in other Hindu festivals.

* It is a day of renunciation and prayer. It is a day to realize the Brahmn and cleanse ignorance. Lord Shiva appeared in the form of Jyotirlinga on this day. A lingam which had no end and beginning and it symbolizes Brahman.

* It is said that one should practice non-violence on this day. Then are things like not to lie, strict brahmacharya, be compassionate etc.

* Generally most people fast on Shivaratri day by uttering the panchakshari mantra – ‘om namah shivaya.’ Next is keeping vigil all night by worshipping Lord Shiva. Worshipping Shiva with Bilva leaves is considered highly auspicious.

* If you have a Shivling at home you can keep on bathing it at night with milk, curd, sugar, honey and ghee-PANCHANMRUTHAM.

If u find this hard...pouring simple water will do. Remember, Shiva accepts anything when given with utmost devotion.

* If you are unable to observe fast or keep vigil during night, you can observe the day by chanting ‘om namah shivaya.’

How to do Shivratri Puja

*Wake up before sunrise and take bath and wear clean clothes.

*Applying of sacred ash, or vibhuthi, is an important aspect on the day. People also wear a Rudraksha Mala.

*The idols of Ganesh, Shiva and Parvati are cleaned and a lamp is lit.

*Most people then visit a nearby Shiva temple. In most places, Shivratri is largely observed in temples.

How to observe fast

Most devotees go for a fruit diet and drink lots of water.

No meal is eaten after sunset.

Next meal is taken on the morning of Amavasi after doing puja and giving alms.

The entire night is spend in a nearby Shiva temple or by chanting Mantras or listening to stories related to Shiva.

.