| Mahashivaratri
(the great night of Shiva) falls on the fourteenth day of the dark fortnight of
Phalguna (February- March), and is dedicated to the worship of Lord Shiva. This
festival is purely religious in nature and universally observed by all Hindus.
On this day devotees sing bhajans in honor of Shiva, recite Sanskrit shlokas (verses)
from scriptures, offer prayers in the morning and evening, and some observe fasting
throughout the day. People visit nearby temples of Shiva and offer prayers in
large crowds. The prayers and worship continue late into the night when the devotees
offer coconut, Bilva leaves, fruits, and specially prepared sacred food to Shiva
and his divine consort Parvati. Offering Bilva leaves to Shiva on Shivaratri is
considered very auspicious by his devotees. Please
don't forget to send this page. Happy Shivaratri ! |
