Mahashivratri Shringar -Mahakaleshwar Mandir,Ujjain
Shivratri 2024, a significant Hindu festival dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, is set to be celebrated on March 8th. This grand celebration takes place across India in Hindu temples, where devotees pray to Lord Shiva, the destroyer, and the compassionate God.
This auspicious day falls on Chaturdashi Tithi of Krishna Paksha in the Phalgun month of the Hindu calendar. The festival marks the divine union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, symbolizing the merging of mindfulness (Purusha) and nature (Prakriti) leading to creation.
Here are some key details for Mahashivratri 2024:
Date and Time:
– Mahashivratri will be celebrated on March 8.
– Chaturdashi Tithi begins at 09:57 pm on March 8 and ends at 06:17 pm on March 9.
– Nishita Kaal Puja is scheduled from 2:07 am to 12:56 am on March 9.
– Shivaratri Parana time is between 06:37 am to 03:29 am.
Why the Festival is Celebrated:
According to Hindu mythology, Mahashivratri commemorates the sacred marriage of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. This celebration honors their divine union, representing the harmony of consciousness and energy that leads to creation.
Puja Rituals:
Observing a fast during Mahashivratri is considered highly auspicious. Devotees visit temples, offering ‘Panchamrit’—a mixture of milk, curd, honey, sugar, and ghee—to Lord Shiva. Fasting rules vary, with some abstaining from food and water, while others include specific items like potato, makhana, banana, and pumpkin in their diet.
Offerings to Lord Shiva:
Devotees can make offerings such as ‘bbel patra, dhatura flower, curd, ghee, sandalwood’ to Lord Shiva. Sweets made with milk and its products, like barfi, peda, and payasam/kheer, are also popular offerings. During the puja, it’s advised to use sandalwood paste instead of kumkum tilak.
In summary, Mahashivratri is a vibrant celebration, uniting devotees in prayer and rituals to honor the divine union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. The festival’s customs, fasting rules, and offerings add a rich tapestry to this spiritually significant occasion.