Maha Shivaratri, one of the most revered festivals in Hinduism, is a night dedicated to Lord Shiva, the supreme deity of destruction and transformation. Celebrated annually on the 14th day of the dark fortnight in the Hindu month of Phalguna (February-March), Maha Shivaratri holds deep spiritual and religious significance. It is observed by millions of devotees worldwide who engage in fasting, chanting, and night-long vigils in devotion to Shiva. This year, Maha Shivaratri is on the 26th of February 2025.
The Significance of Maha Shivaratri
Maha Shivaratri, which translates to “The Great Night of Shiva,” is believed to be the night when Lord Shiva performed the cosmic dance of creation, preservation, and destruction known as the Tandava. This festival is also associated with the divine marriage of Shiva and Goddess Parvati, symbolizing the union of masculine and feminine energies in the universe.
For yogis and spiritual seekers, this night is considered highly auspicious for meditation and self-realization, as it is believed that the planetary alignments create a conducive environment for spiritual growth. Here is a list of reasons why Maha Shivaratri is so important:
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The Night of Lord Shiva: Maha Shivaratri is dedicated to Lord Shiva, who is considered the Supreme Being and the destroyer of evil in Hindu mythology. The night is believed to be the time when Lord Shiva performs the cosmic dance of creation, preservation, and destruction.
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Symbol of Overcoming Darkness: The night symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil, and ignorance over knowledge. Devotees observe the night with fasting, prayer, and meditation to remove the darkness of ignorance and attain spiritual enlightenment.
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Spiritual Growth and Self-Realization: Maha Shivaratri is a time for deep spiritual reflection. It is believed that worshipping Lord Shiva on this day brings devotees closer to self-realization, helps purify their mind and soul, and leads to liberation (moksha).
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Fasting and Meditation: Devotees observe a strict fast and perform night-long vigils, meditating and chanting mantras like “Om Namah Shivaya.” This practice is said to help increase focus, discipline, and devotion, guiding the individual toward higher consciousness.
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The Power of Lord Shiva: Lord Shiva embodies both the destructive and transformative energies of the universe. Maha Shivaratri honors these aspects of Shiva, signifying the destruction of old and negative energies, allowing space for renewal and growth.
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Cleansing of Past Sins: The night is considered especially auspicious for seeking forgiveness for past mistakes and sins. Devotees believe that by praying with a sincere heart, they can attain Lord Shiva’s blessings and remove karmic burdens.
How do I celebrate Maha Shivaratri?
I’m proud to say as a Shiv Bhakt that Maha Shivaratri is one of my favorite occasions. I remember tuning into Sadhguru’s Maha Shivaratri broadcast for the first time ever on YouTube in 2021. Sadhguru was telling each one of his viewers to remain at a steady position throughout the night to accumulate most of the blessings and energies. Sadhguru emphasized the importance of keeping your spine straight vertically.
Cultural performances by renowned artists, Rudra mantra chanting, and the sacred Abhishekam (ritual bathing of the Shiva Linga) add to the grandeur of the celebration, making it a deeply transformative night for seekers worldwide. One of my favorite artists who has performed on a night like this is ‘Hansraj Raghuvanshi’. Mr. Raghuvanshi is a musician known for his devotional and folk-style music, particularly songs dedicated to Lord Shiva.
As a devotee of Lord Shiva, I also make sure visit my local Hindu Temple. There, I offer milk and water to Lord Shiva. The Abhishekam (ritual bathing) with cool substances like milk and water is believed to pacify his intense energy and bring peace and prosperity to the devotee.
About the author
Dhruv Verma is on the Marketing Team and has been involved with HSC since he started volunteering as a chapter relations coordinator in 2021. He is a Media and Communication Studies graduate from the University of Washington and enjoys learning more about Sanatan Dharma.
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“Leave a comment below and share how you celebrate Maha Shivaratri! Om Namah Shivaya!”