Maha Shivratri

Shiva-ratri means the night of Lord Shiva. In the Vedic month of Phalgun (February-March) there is a Maha Shivaratri. The ceremony takes place mainly at night. This festival is observed in honor of Lord Shiva, who was married to Parvati (Mother Durga/Mother Gauri) on this day.

Some devotees observe a strict fast on this day. They stay awake the whole night. The Shiva linga is worshipped throughout the night by bathing it every three hours with milk, yogurt, ghee, honey, etc., whilst chanting of the mantra “Om namah shivaya” continues. Bilva leaves are offered to the linga. These leaves are very sacred (as Tulasi is to Lord Krishna) and Lord Shiva becomes pleased with that offering. Many hymns glorifying Lord Shiva are sung with devotion.

He who utters the names of Lord Shiva during  Shivaratri with perfect devotion and concentration is freed from all sins and he reaches the abode of Lord Shiva and resides very happily there.