Maha Shivratri 2024: Rules to rituals, all you need to know

From rules to rituals, here's everything you need to know about the major Hindu festival Maha Shivratri.

Published on: Mar 03, 2024 10:14 AM IST

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Maha Shivratri, a significant Hindu festival honoring Lord Shiva, is celebrated fervently by millions of devotees worldwide. According to the Hindu calendar, Maha Shivratri falls annually on the fourteenth day of the dark (waning) half of the lunar month of Phalguna or Magha. This year, Maha Shivratri will be observed on March 8th.  (AP)

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One of the central observances of Maha Shivratri is fasting, where devotees abstain from food and water, dedicating the day to prayer and introspection.   (PTI)

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Another key ritual is the worship of Lord Shiva, often in the form of the Shiva Linga. Devotees visit temples, perform Abhishekam (ritual bathing of the Shiva Linga), and offer fruits, flowers, and sacred items to the deity.  (HT Photo/Keshav Singh)

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Maha Shivratri is also a night of vigil, with devotees staying awake, chanting prayers, singing hymns, and meditating on the glory of Lord Shiva.  (HT Photo/Deepak Gupta)

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Wearing Rudraksha beads, which are associated with Lord Shiva, is considered auspicious during Maha Shivratri. These beads are believed to have divine properties and offer protection to the wearer.  (AFP)

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Offerings of bael leaves, flowers, and fruits are made to Lord Shiva. Some devotees also offer the Bhang (cannabis) to Lord Shiva as it is believed to be his favorite.  (PTI)

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Reading and reciting scriptures like the Shiva Purana and chanting the Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra are considered beneficial. (AFP)

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Devotees are encouraged to give alms, clothes, and food to the needy, embodying the spirit of selflessness and kindness.  (Pixabay)

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Devotees often meditate on the name and form of Lord Shiva, contemplating his virtues and seeking his blessings.  (HT Photo/Rajesh Kumar)