Central to Maha Shivratri puja is the sacred bath, or ‘Abhishekam’.
Celebrated in honor of Lord Shiva, Maha Shivaratri is part of a rich tradition and includes many sacred rituals meant to deepen the spiritual connection between devotees and the divine. It is usually celebrated in the months of February or March depending on the exact date In the Hindu calendar – the fourteenth (Chaturdashi) day of Krishna Paksha of the lunar month of Phalguna or Magha. This year, that day is on March 8, 2024. Maha Shivratri has immense spiritual significance and is celebrated in many states across the country.
Chaturdashi tithi will start at 09:57 PM on March 8, 2024 and will end at 6:17 PM on March 9. Nishita Kaal puja timings will start at 12:07 am and end at 12:56 am on March 09.
Under this, during the first phase, the auspicious time on March 8 (glass or three-hour duration) will start at 6.25 pm and continue till 9.28 pm. In the second phase, the auspicious time will start at 9.28 pm on March 8 and will continue till 12.31 am on March 9.
The puja begins with careful preparation, as devotees purify their mind, body and surroundings to create an auspicious atmosphere.
Some devotees decorate their homes with fragrant flowers, incense sticks and sacred symbols while fasting and abstaining from worldly indulgences to purify their souls and invoke the blessings of Lord Shiva.
The centerpiece of Maha Shivratri puja is the sacred bath, or ‘Coronation‘, in which the Shiva Lingam is bathed with milk, curd, honey, ghee and holy water, symbolizing purity and divine grace. Each offering carries deep symbolism, highlighting the divine qualities of Lord Shiva and invoking his blessings for spiritual growth and fulfillment.
Devotees offer Bilva leaves, known as ‘Bilva Patra’, with deep devotion as these leaves are believed to be dear to Lord Shiva. The three leaves symbolize the three aspects of consciousness – waking, dreaming and deep sleep – and offering them to the Shiva Lingam symbolizes the surrender of the ego and the attainment of spiritual awakening.
Similarly, Rudraksha beads hold immense significance in Maha Shivratri rituals, as they are believed to symbolize the tears of Lord Shiva. Devotees chant sacred mantras and meditate, counting each bead devotionally, trying to attune their consciousness to the divine vibrations of Lord Shiva.
At some places, devotees hold ‘Jagran’, night vigil, bhajan kirtan, sing devotional songs and narrate stories of Lord Shiva. Fruits, sweets and “Prasad” are distributed among the devotees.
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