Maha Shivratri is one of the most significant and popular festivals celebrated all across the nation. It is celebrated with dedication and in honor of Lord Shiva and Mata Parvati. Lord Shiva is recognized as the Lord of Destruction and the most compassionate Lord. The devotees celebrate this festival with great enthusiasm and energy. The devotees keep fast on this day to get the blessings of God. They also visit the temple to worship Baba Bholenath. The festival of Maha Shivratri generally happens in February or March. Shivratri is considered as the night of enlightenment and awakening. The devotees celebrate this festival in honor of the marriage of Shiva and Shakti. Both Lord Shiva and Maa Parvati signify love, power, and togetherness. It is also believed that the world's famous twelve Jyotirlingas appeared on this auspicious day.

When is Maha Shivratri 2023?

As mentioned earlier, the festival of Maha Shivratri falls in February or March. This year, it will be celebrated on 18th February 2023, Saturday.

Maha Shivratri Puja Vidhi, Significance, and Rituals

The devotees performing all the rituals must bathe and wear neat and clean clothes. As this auspicious night is also celebrated and considered the night of Yog and Meditation, the devotees should meditate for some time or chant "Om Namaha Shivaye" in a peaceful and calm place.

To take the blessings of Lord Shiva, the devotees visit the temple alone or with their family members. Then the Abhishek of the Shivalingam is performed with Panchamrit (curd, honey, milk, ghee, and Ganga Jal). Some devotees also perform Rudrabhishek of the Shivalingam and recite the “MahaMritunjaya Mantra.” Janeu, akshat, datura, flowers, bel patra, fruits, and bhang are offered to the Lord Shiva. The female devotees offer sindoor, bindi, bangles, etc., to Mata Parvati for their husbands' well-being and good health. After offering bhog to the Lord, a parikrama is performed. Recite aarti in the end. After the Puja is completed thoroughly, bhog is distributed among the family members and devotees.

Some devotees also take a dip in the auspicious water of the Ganges. Most of the devotees who observe fast on this day worship