Why is “Maha Shivratri” celebrated?

Maha Shivratri, also known as the “Great Night of Shiva,” is a prominent Hindu festival held every year in honor of Lord Shiva, one of Hinduism’s primary deities. The event has deep spiritual importance and is celebrated on the 14th day of the dark fortnight (Krishna Paksha) in the Hindu lunar month of Phalguna (February-March).

The Maha Shivratri event is related with a variety of mythological and spiritual themes. One well-known mythology describes Lord Shiva’s celestial marriage with Goddess Parvati. According to Hindu mythology, on this fortunate night, Lord Shiva performed the cosmic dance of Tandava, which represents creation, preservation, and destruction. This night is observed by devotees to commemorate Lord Shiva’s holy presence and function as the universe’s creator, sustainer, and destroyer.

Another tale related with Maha Shivratri is the ‘Samudra Manthan’, or the churning of the ocean of milk by Devas (celestial beings) and Asuras (demons). During the churning, a pot of poison (halahala) rose from the water, threatening to destroy the earth. To preserve the universe from catastrophe, Lord Shiva drank the poison but did not swallow it. Instead, he kept it in his throat, which grew blue, garnering him the nickname “Neelkanth” (the one with the blue throat). Maha Shivratri commemorates this act of self-sacrifice as well as Lord Shiva’s position as the world’s rescuer.

Maha Shivratri is a deeply spiritual event for followers who fast, do puja (worship), and meditate and pray all night. It is believed that keeping a watch (jaagran) on Maha Shivratri and repeating the sacred mantra “Om Namah Shivaya” will purify one’s soul, eradicate sins, and give blessings, serenity, and wealth

Furthermore, Maha Shivratri is more than just a night of prayer; it is also a time for introspection, spiritual development, and inner transformation. It is a time for devotees to ask forgiveness for their past transgressions, cleanse their thoughts and acts, and strengthen their bond with Lord Shiva, who is revered as the ultimate source of auspiciousness, kindness, and enlightenment in Hinduism.

In essence, Maha Shivratri honors Lord Shiva’s cosmic presence, commemorates his noble acts, and seeks his blessings for spiritual upliftment, prosperity, and freedom from the cycle of birth and death. It is a period of deep devotion, piety, and joy, representing the triumph of light over darkness and, ultimately, justice over evil.