
As Lord Shiva is known to be a loving husband and a god of virtue.ĭevotees, wake up early and bathe, if possible then in the holy river Ganga. Mostly women observe this fast to be blessed with a partner of similar virtues. It is strongly believed, that by following this fast it absolves all sins and gives him or her mukti ( the release from the cycle of birth and death). The virtues of Shiva such as honesty, self-restraint, forgiveness and love are the key qualities that are strived for by observing this fast.The devotees observe a fast in the Honour of Lord Shiva, some observe a diet of only fruits and milk while some do not even consume a sip of water. It is observed by chanting prayers and fasting and meditating. In Hinduism, it is considered a major Hindu festival and signifies, the triumph of light over dark and ignorance. Yet another belief is that Lord Shiva had consumed negativity to protect the world. So it Is considered to be extremely auspicious by Shiva devotees and they celebrate it as Maha Shivaratri – the grand night of Shiva.Ĥ. Another legend from the Linga Purana states that it is on this day that Lord Shiva manifested in the form of a Linga or Lingam. Classical forms of dance worship this form of Lord Shiva.ģ. This form of Shiva is known as the ‘Nataraja’ the lord of the dance. Tandava is the dance of creation preservation and destruction. Alternately there is a belief that Lord Shiva performed the Tandava on this day. Maha Shivaratri (Shiva Birthday) is also associated with the wedding of Lord Shiva to Goddess Parvati.Ģ. But then such an ancient god and so much time in between, distortions of a story is plausable.ġ. All of which are deemed to be true by devotees.

There are many legends surrounding this festival. In the same way, he will take away all poison, envy, jealousy and negativity from his devotees and protecting them at all times. One may wonder why a poisonous flower for the great Lord Shiva? Well, Shiva is known to be NeelKanth ( the one with the blue throat), legend says he drank the water from the sea as the water was poisoned and saved the world. The flower offered to Shiva is the Datura, it is commonly known as a poisonous flower.


It is believed that prayers offered to Shiva without these leaves are fruitless.

Devotees offer Bilva leaves at the temple, the tree itself is said to be created by Bra hma and the leaf is said to have originated in the hands of Lak shmi after a long penance. A steady flow of devotees who offer milk to Lord Shiva, pour milk over the shivaling. On this day temples will be lit up and adorned with flowers. This year 2019 it is falls on the 4th of March.
