JNM Journalist Hardeep Jamwal, Jammu
The confusion surrounding the date of Mahashivratri has now been clarified. According to spiritual tradition and astrological calculations, this year the holy festival of Mahashivratri will be celebrated with reverence and devotion on February 15th. This festival symbolizes the divine marriage of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati and holds special significance as a night of self-awakening and spiritual practice.
According to religious beliefs, Lord Shiva married Goddess Parvati on the night of Chaturdashi in the Krishna Paksha of Phalgun month. For this reason, this night is considered extremely sacred and fruitful. Devotees observe a fast throughout the day and perform special rituals at night. The ritual of worshipping the Shiva family—Lord Shiva, Goddess Parvati, Lord Ganesha, and Nandi—has been described.
For worship, one should bathe in the morning and wear clean clothes. Wearing Rudraksha beads and applying ash tilak is considered auspicious. According to traditional beliefs, it is considered better to worship wearing a dhoti than stitched clothes. The four-hour night worship is of particular significance. Offerings of Bel leaves, Dhatura, Aak, Ganga water, milk, curd, ghee, and honey are made to the Shivalinga. It is also customary to offer Bhog immediately after the Aarti.
Lord Shiva is called “Aughaddani” because he is quickly pleased with his devotees and accepts prayers made with a true heart. Inner devotion and faith are given more importance than external ostentation in Shiva worship.
The Shivalinga made of Parad (mercury) also holds a special place in religious traditions. It is worshipped as the embodiment of Lord Shiva. It is believed that regular worship of the Parad Shivalinga fulfills desires and brings peace and happiness to the family.
Preparations for Mahashivratri have already begun in temples. Special decorations, night vigils, bhajans, kirtans, and Shiva Vivah programs will be organized. There is an atmosphere of enthusiasm among the devotees regarding the festival and a large number of devotees will reach the temples to receive the blessings of Lord Shiva.
