History & significance importance of Maha Shivratri

Maha Shivratri, also known as the 'Great Night of Shiva,' is one of the most auspicious and celebrated Hindu festivals dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is celebrated annually on the 14th night of the dark fortnight in the month of Phalguna or Magha, according to the Hindu calendar. 

Date of Maha Shivratri:

In 2023, Maha Shivratri will be observed on February 19. Lord Shiva, also known as Mahadev, is considered one of the three main deities in Hinduism, along with Brahma and Vishnu. He is worshipped as the god of destruction and regeneration, and is believed to be the ultimate source of all creation. Maha Shivratri is a celebration of the divine grace and blessings of Lord Shiva, and is believed to be the night when he performs his cosmic dance, the Tandav Nritya.

Date of Maha Shivratri:

The festival is observed by devotees across the world, who engage in various rituals and traditions to seek blessings from Lord Shiva. One of the main rituals is fasting, where devotees abstain from food and water for the entire day and night, and offer prayers and puja to Lord Shiva. The fast is broken only the next day, after offering morning prayers to the deity.

Another significant aspect of the festival is the lighting of lamps and incense sticks, which are believed to ward off evil spirits and purify the environment. Devotees also offer bael leaves, milk, honey, and other items to Lord Shiva, and chant his name and mantras throughout the night.

Maha Shivratri is also associated with various legends and mythological stories. According to one legend, it is believed that on this night, Lord Shiva married his consort, Parvati, and devotees celebrate the occasion as a symbol of their union and devotion.

In some parts of India, Maha Shivaratri is celebrated with great pomp and show. In Varanasi, the city of Lord Shiva, a grand procession is held, where devotees carry a lingam, which represents Lord Shiva, and immerse it in the river Ganges. In some parts of the country, cultural programs, music, and dance performances are organized to celebrate the festival.

Liturgical Temples, Maha Shivaratri is a significant Hindu festival that celebrates the divine grace and blessings of Lord Shiva. It is a time for devotees to seek his blessings, offer prayers, and engage in various rituals and traditions to honor the god of destruction and regeneration.

Temples in Tamilnadu is popularly called as the Land of Temples that are scattered across the state. These artistic and beautiful temples are dedicated to Lord Vinayagar, Lord Shiva, Lord Murugan, Lord Vishnu, Lord Hanuman and Goddess Parvathy.