Shivratri, or Maha Shivratri, is one of the most significant festivals in Hinduism, dedicated to Lord Shiva, the supreme deity of destruction and transformation. Observed with great devotion across India and other parts of the world, this festival holds immense spiritual importance. Devotees observe fasts, perform special prayers, and chant Lord Shiva’s mantras throughout the night to seek his divine blessings.
When is Shivratri?
Shivratri is observed on the 14th day of the lunar month (Chaturdashi Tithi) during the Krishna Paksha (waning phase of the moon) in the Hindu calendar month of Phalguna (February-March). In 2025, MahaShivratri falls on February 26.
Why is Shivratri Celebrated?
MahaShivratri is celebrated for several mythological and spiritual reasons:
- Divine Wedding: According to legends, Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati got married on this day.
- Cosmic Dance: It is believed that Lord Shiva performed the Tandava, the dance of creation and destruction, on this night.
- Spiritual Awakening: Shivratri signifies overcoming darkness and ignorance in life.
- Samudra Manthan: Another legend says that during the churning of the ocean (Samudra Manthan), Lord Shiva drank the Halahala (poison) to save the universe, and MahaShivratri marks this event.
What to Do on Shivratri?
Devotees observe the following rituals and customs on Shivratri:
- Fasting: Many devotees observe a full-day fast and refrain from consuming grains.
- Visiting Temples: Devotees visit Shiva temples and perform special prayers.
- Night Vigil (Jagran): Staying awake all night and chanting Shiva Mantras like Om Namah Shivaya.
- Abhishek (Holy Bath): Performing Abhishek (bathing the Shiva Lingam) with milk, honey, curd, ghee, and water.
- Offering Bilva Leaves: Presenting Bilva (Bael) leaves to the Shiva Lingam is considered auspicious.
- Listening to Shiv Purana: Reading or listening to stories of Lord Shiva enhances spiritual growth.
How to Do Shivratri Fast?
Observing the Shivratri fast (Vrat) requires discipline and devotion:
- Nirjala Vrat (Waterless Fast): Some devotees do not consume even water.
- Phalahar Vrat (Fruit Fast): Fruits, milk, and dry fruits are allowed.
- Simple Meal: Some people consume a meal without grains, onion, garlic, or table salt.
- Breaking the Fast: The fast is broken on the next day after the morning puja.
Which Colour to Wear on Shivratri?
The most auspicious colors to wear on Shivratri are:
- White: Represents purity and devotion.
- Blue: Symbolizes Lord Shiva’s aura.
- Red & Yellow: Indicate energy and positivity.
- Green: Represents nature and renewal.
What to Eat in Shivratri Fast?
Foods allowed during Shivratri fast:
- Fruits (Banana, Apple, Pomegranate)
- Dry fruits (Almonds, Cashews, Raisins)
- Milk and dairy products (Paneer, Curd, Buttermilk)
- Sabudana (Tapioca pearls)
- Singhara (Water chestnut flour) & Kuttu (Buckwheat flour)
- Rock salt (Sendha Namak) instead of regular salt
Can We Eat Salt in Shivratri Fast?
Yes, Sendha Namak (rock salt) can be consumed during Shivratri fast, but regular table salt is prohibited.
When to Break Shivratri Fast?
The Shivratri fast is broken the next morning after completing Shiva Puja and offering prayers. It is advisable to start with light food like fruits and milk before consuming a full meal.
Can We Drink Milk in Shivratri Fast?
Yes, drinking milk is not only allowed but is considered highly auspicious during Shivratri fasting. Many devotees offer milk to Lord Shiva before consuming it themselves.
Can We Drink Water During Shivratri Fast?
Yes, drinking water is allowed unless one is observing Nirjala Vrat, where even water is avoided.
How to Do Shivratri Puja at Home?
Performing Shivratri Puja at home involves:
- Cleanse Yourself: Take a bath and wear clean clothes.
- Set Up a Shivling: If you have a Shiva Lingam, place it on a sacred platform.
- Offer Abhishek: Pour milk, honey, curd, and Ganga Jal over the Shivling.
- Offer Bilva Leaves: Three-leaved Bilva is considered sacred.
- Light a Diya (Lamp): Use ghee or sesame oil for lighting a diya.
- Chant Mantras: Recite Om Namah Shivaya and Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra.
- Sing Bhajans & Perform Aarti: End the puja with aarti and bhajans dedicated to Lord Shiva.
How to Keep Shivratri Fast?
To keep the Shivratri fast effectively:
- Wake up early and take a holy bath.
- Visit a Shiva temple or set up a shrine at home.
- Stay away from grains and consume only fasting-permissible foods.
- Stay hydrated with water, coconut water, and milk.
- Engage in prayers, chanting, and meditation.
- Stay awake the whole night, if possible.
How to Wish Someone on Shivratri?
You can wish your loved ones on MahaShivratri with these messages:
- “Wishing you a blessed MahaShivratri! May Lord Shiva bring peace, happiness, and prosperity into your life.”
- “May the divine energy of Lord Shiva surround you and your family. Happy MahaShivratri!”
- “May Lord Shiva grant you strength, wisdom, and success in all your endeavors. Om Namah Shivaya!“
Can We Eat Ice Cream in Shivratri Fast?
Yes, milk-based ice cream is allowed if it does not contain grains, gelatin, or artificial additives that are not permitted during fasting.
How to Open Shivratri Fast?
To break the Shivratri fast properly:
- Begin with water or fruit juice to hydrate your body.
- Eat light fruits like banana or apple.
- Drink milk or buttermilk to soothe digestion.
- Consume sabudana khichdi or vrat-friendly food.
- Avoid spicy and heavy foods immediately after fasting.
MahaShivratri festival is a powerful night of devotion, fasting, and spiritual awakening. Observing the rituals with dedication helps one seek blessings for inner peace, prosperity, and divine connection with Lord Shiva.