MahaShivratri 2024: One of the most important Hindu festivals, Maha Shivratri, is celebrated with great enthusiasm. Know its history and significance. Maha Shivratri, the grand night of devotion and fasting for Lord Shiva devotees, has almost arrived. One of the most important Hindu festivals, Maha Shivratri is celebrated with great fervour and enthusiasm across the country with slightly varying traditions. On this day, devotees observe a day-long fast, meditate, visit Shiva temples, recite mantra and prayers and perform rituals associated with Lord Shiva worship. The festival is the time to purify body, mind and soul and for fresh beginnings. Observing a day-long fast on Mahashivratri is of great spiritual significance as it is equivalent to worshipping Shiva the entire year and can also help one attain salvation and get rid of all sins. Observing this vrat can help one progress on path of inner peace and spirituality and achieve all worldly goals too.
Mahashivratri 2024: Puja time
- Chaturdashi Tithi begins at 09:57 pm on 8 March
- Chaturdashi Tithi ends at 06:17 pm on 9 March.
- Nishita Kaal Puja is 2:07 am to 12:56 am on 9 March
- And, Shivaratri Parana time is between 06:37 am to 03:29 am
Maha Shivratri 2024 Date
Maha Shivratri holds the utmost significance among all the monthly Masik Shivratris. It occurs on the fourteenth day of the waning moon in the months of Phalguna or Magha, just before the new moon. In 2024, it will be celebrated on Friday, March 8th.
Maha Shivratri 2024 History
There are numerous myths linked to the celebration of Maha Shivratri, ranging from the sacred union of Shiva and Parvati to the story of Lord Shiva ingesting the Halahala poison, each contributing to the significance of this important observance. According to one legend, Maha Shivratri is the night when Shiva performed the celestial dance of creation, preservation, and destruction. It is believed that Lord Shiva consumed the Halahala poison that emerged during the Samudra Manthan to protect the world. By holding the poison in his throat, it turned it blue, leading to him being called Neelkantha. Nonetheless, the most well-known legend is the one depicting Lord Shiva’s union with Mata Parvati. The legend states that Goddess Parvati, in her various forms, undertook rigorous penance to earn the love of Lord Shiva. Eventually, impressed by her dedication and perseverance, Shiva agreed to wed Parvati, and this divine union is commemorated as Maha Shivratri.
Maha Shivratri 2024 Significance
Maha Shivratri holds more importance than commonly believed. Observing a fast during Maha Shivratri can aid in dispelling ignorance and achieving self-realization. Delving into its authentic essence enables the soul to break free from the cycle of reincarnation. Diligently observing this fast has the potential to cleanse past wrongdoings and negative energies, guiding towards a fresh path in life. Hence, Maha Shivratri serves as a chance for self-reflection and revitalizing one’s spiritual bond with the divine.
Maha Shivratri 2024 Celebration
Maha Shivratri is celebrated widely across the country with the continuous chanting of Om Namah Shivay, creating an atmosphere filled with devotion and spirituality. Hindus from Kashmir to Tamil Nadu observe unique traditions and show great dedication during this festival. From melas, jagratas, to fasting throughout the day, devotees connect with Lord Shiva in their own way. It is a common practice for devotees to pray all night and take part in jagrans to dispel darkness and ignorance. Offerings to Lord Shiva include belpatra, dhatura, milk, fruits, and sweets, while devotees fast from sunrise to sunset. References to Maha Shivratri can be found in ancient texts such as Skanda Purana, Linga Purana, and Padma Purana. In Odisha, Jagara is organized, while Gujarat hosts the Maha Shivratri mela. Punjab sees Shobha Yatras organized by Hindu organizations, and unmarried girls in Odisha and West Bengal fast to find a suitable husband and ensure a happy married life.