Maha Shivratri

Maha Shivratri has taught us the importance of nature, represented by Mahadeva. “Om Na Ma Si Va Ya!“ ‘Na’ (earth), ‘Ma’ (water), ‘Si’ (fire), ‘Va’ (air), and ‘Ya’ (space)

Maha Shivaratri, known as the "Great Night of Shiva," is a significant Hindu festival dedicated to Lord Shiva, one of the principal deities of the religion. Celebrated annually, this auspicious occasion marks the divine marriage of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, as well as the night when Lord Shiva manifested in the form of a cosmic lingam. Devotees observe this day with fasting, prayer, and devotion, seeking Lord Shiva’s blessings for spiritual growth, health, prosperity, and liberation.

The night of Maha Shivaratri is filled with rituals, the most important being the worship of the Shiva Lingam. Devotees offer milk, honey, water, and leaves from the Bilva tree to the lingam, symbolizing reverence and purification. A major aspect of the festival is the night vigil, where participants stay awake, meditating and chanting mantras such as Om Namah Shivaya, to honor Lord Shiva and invoke his blessings for enlightenment and inner peace.

Maha Shivaratri is not only a time of devotion but also a period for spiritual renewal and self-reflection. It is believed that observing the fast and engaging in prayers helps devotees overcome obstacles, purify their minds, and achieve moksha (liberation from the cycle of rebirth). The festival serves as a reminder of Lord Shiva’s divine power to destroy evil and ignorance, symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness.