New Delhi: Mahashivratri is regarded as one of the most auspicious festivals in India. It is commemorated every year with great zeal and enthusiasm. This year, the festival will be celebrated on February 18. While Shivratri is celebrated in every lunisolar month of the Hindu calendar, the Mahashivratri is believed to occur just once a year, in February/March, when winter ends and spring and summer begin.
Every state celebrates this festival with great fervour. Shiv Archana is conducted at Shiva temples around the country on this day by devotees who also offer milk, dhatura bel patra, sandalwood paste, ghee, sugar, and other products to the Shivling.
Additionally, devotees also perform a 24-hour fast that is interrupted the next morning. In contrast to many other celebrations, Mahashivratri Puja is held at night. During the fast, devotees take satvik meals like ragi, sabudana, fruits, and a few vegetables.
Do’s And Don’ts To Keep In Mind While Fasting For Shivratri:
If you’re fasting during Mahashivratri, take a look at some dos and don’ts to keep in mind as you celebrate.
Do’s For Mahashivratri:
- The Sankalp for Mahashivratri fasting is taken a day before the vrat after bathing in the morning and while doing Shiv Puja. It is done by placing some rice and water in the palm.
- Devotees have to wake up early in the morning on the day of the fast around Brahma Muhurta or sunrise.
- On the day of the fast, one should take a bath and wear clean clothes, preferably white.
- People who are observing this fast are advised to chant ‘Om Namah Shivay’.
- Since the puja is held at night, devotees should take a second bath in the evening before the Puja and they usually break the fast the next day after bathing.
- People who are suffering from certain health conditions or are on medication should consult their doctor before going ahead with fasting.
- The offerings for Lord Shiva include milk, dhatura flower, belpatra, sandalwood paste, yoghurt, honey, ghee, and sugar.
Don’ts For Mahashivratri:
- Devotees refrain from consuming anything made of rice, wheat, or pulses, as these foods are not permitted during the fast.
- People generally avoid garlic, onion, and non-vegetarian meals because they are tamsik in nature.
- Also, it is advised not to offer coconut water to the Shivling
It is believed that those people who perform puja, fast, and offer prayers to Lord Shiva are blessed with good luck. Many people also think that Maha Shivratri fast reminds devotees that pride, ego and falsehood lead to downfall only.