Ashish Ranjan
Mahashivratri, the festival dedicated to Lord Shiva, one of the most important deities in Hinduism, is held annually in the South Indian month of Magha and the North Indian month of Phalguna. Mahashivratri is observed differently than Shivratri, which occurs every month and twelve times a year in total. According to folklore, Mahashivratri, also known as the Great Night of Shiva, is the night during which Lord Shiva performs his Tandava Nritya. According to another tale, the day marks Shiva and Parvati’s wedding night. On February 18, 2023, Mahashivratri will be observed this year (Saturday).
Mahashivratri is observed throughout the entire nation, from Uttarakhand, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, and Bihar to Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana. Nationwide, devotees visit Shiva temples, perform Shiv Archana, and offer the Shivling milk, dhatura bel patra, sandalwood paste, ghee, sugar, and other bhog products. Shiv devotees undertake a full-day fast and break it the next morning. Unlike many other celebrations, the Mahashivratri Puja is performed at night.
During the fast, devotees may consume satvik foods such as buckwheat, ragi, sabudana, fruits, and some vegetables. If you are observing the Mahashivratri fast, you must adhere to these Dos and Don’ts.
Mahashivratri fasting Do’s
1.The sankalp for the Mahashivratri fast is taken the day before, after a morning bath and while performing Shiv Puja. By placing some rice and water in the palm, the sankalp is created.
2.On the day of the fast, rise early in the morning around Brahma Muhurta or sunrise.
3.On the day of the fast, one must bathe and wear clean, preferably white, clothing.
4.People keeping this fast are encouraged to say “Om Namah Shivay” multiple times per day.
5.Since Shivratri Puja is performed at night, devotees are required to take a second bath in the evening before to performing Shiv Puja. Typically, devotees break the fast the following day after bathing.
6.Before beginning the fast, individuals with particular health issues or who are taking medication should visit a physician.
7.Milk, dhatura flower, belpatra, sandalwood paste, yoghurt, honey, ghee, and sugar are the sacrifices for Lord Shiva.
8. According to Drikpanchang, devotees should break their fast between daybreak and the conclusion of Chaturdashi Tithi in order to receive the greatest benefit from the Vrat.
Mahashivratri fasting Don’t
1.Rice, wheat, and pulses are prohibited during the fast, hence rice, wheat, and pulses should not be consumed.
2.Non-vegetarian foods, garlic, and onions should be avoided as they are tamsik in nature.
3.One should not provide Shivling coconut water.
