One of the most important days for the devotees of Lord Shiva and one of the most auspicious days of the year, Mahashivratri is just around the corner again for the year 2021. The day will be falling on 11th March this year, or according to the Lunar Calendar, on the 14th day of the Krishna Paksha (waning moon) in the month of Magha.
Literally, the “Great Night of Lord Shiva,” Mahashivratri sees devotees fast during the day to appease the lord, while the nights are often dedicated to praying and worshipping Shiva. The combined effect of this devotion to please Lord Shiva is said to bring a long-life and prosperity to the devotees, while also bestowing one with spirituality and help them atone for their sins to achieve the ultimate happiness in life; Nirvana.
But why is Mahashivratri celebrated? What is the legend behind it? And what should you do to make the most of this Shivratri? This blog will detail out everything you need to know about the great night of Lord Shiva.
The Legend of Mahashivratri
There are a number of legends associated with the history of Mahashivratri. As such, it is important to note that every lunar month in a year has a Shivratri that falls on the 13th day of the waning moon cycle, or just before the New Moon night. This is known as the Masik Shivratri. However, Mahashivratri is considered to be the most auspicious of times of the year to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva. Why?
Because after creating the universe, Goddess Parvati, Lord Shiva’s Divine Consort asked him about his favourite day. Lord Shiva then replied by saying that the 13th day of the Krishna Paksha of the month of Magha. Since the 13th day of every cycle of the Lunar month is the day of Pradosh or the day when Lord Shiva is considered to be the most benevolent; Mahashivratri gains even higher importance amidst the Lord’s Devotees.
Mahashivratri is also considered the day when Lord Shiva performs his divine dance, Rudra Tandava. This dance is considered to convey Shiva’s emotion of creation, destruction, and the balance between the 2 forces. Praying to Lord Shiva on this day will help you find him in a generally benevolent mood, somewhere between the power of creation and destruction.
Rituals of Mahashivratri
The rituals begin early in the morning for Mahashivratri, as devotees wake up before sunrise to take a ritual bath. Prayers are offered to the sun god, Vishnu, and Lord Shiva, followed by putting on new clothes to visit the nearby Shiva Temples. This is where the Shivlinga is given a customary bath with milk, yoghurt, honey, sandalwood paste and rose water. Devotees then begin their all-day fast to pay respects to the Lord. Some important offerings made to the Lord on this day, like vermilion, Bilwa Leaves, and Beetle Leaves are considered special as they are known to have a cooling effect on the otherwise hot-tempered God.
MahaShivratri Muhurat 2021
MahaShivratri Wednesday, March 11, 2021
Nishita Kaal Pooja Timings – 06:24 PM to 09:26 PM
Duration: 0 Hour 48 Minute
On 11th March – Maha Shivaratri
On 12th Feb Parana Time: 06:31 AM to 03:02 PM
Lord Shiva is depicted in a number of ways, but he is mostly known to be a kind-hearted God who rewards those with good deeds and unmatched dedication. To please Lord Shiva the best way according to your horoscope, meet the best astrologer in Gurgaon, Pt Pawan Kaushik who can help you better understand your energies and what you need to do to bring them in your favour. Book your appointment now or get your session with the expert astrologer on a call today.
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