Significance: Maha Shivaratri, which translates to "the Great Night of Shiva," is observed annually in honor of Lord Shiva. It is believed to be the night when Lord Shiva performed the Tandava, the cosmic dance of creation, preservation, and destruction.
Observance: Devotees observe Maha Shivaratri by fasting, performing rituals, and offering prayers to Lord Shiva. Many devotees stay awake throughout the night, engaging in chanting hymns, singing bhajans (devotional songs), and reciting prayers dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Shiva Puja: On Maha Shivaratri, devotees perform special Shiva Puja rituals to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva. The puja typically includes offerings such as water, milk, honey, curd, bilva leaves (bael leaves), and fruits to the Shiva Lingam, representing Lord Shiva's formless aspect.
Abhishekam: Abhishekam refers to the ceremonial bathing of the Shiva Lingam with various substances like milk, yogurt, honey, ghee, and water. It symbolizes purification and devotion.
Meditation: Many devotees observe meditation and introspection on Maha Shivaratri, contemplating the significance of Lord Shiva's attributes such as destruction of ignorance, transformation, and ultimate liberation.
Fasting: Fasting is a common practice among devotees on Maha Shivaratri. Some observe strict fasting, abstaining from food and water, while others may consume fruits, milk, or light meals.
Significance of Shiva: Lord Shiva, one of the principal deities of Hinduism, is regarded as the destroyer of evil and the transformer among the Trimurti (the Hindu Trinity), which also includes Brahma (the Creator) and Vishnu (the Preserver). He is also associated with meditation, asceticism, and the arts.