Linked to Kumbh Mela: Maha Shivratri falls usually at the same time as the Kumbh Mela, the largest congregation of pilgrims on earth, when devotees take the holy plunge in sacred rivers.
Special Worship of 12 Jyotirlingas: Pilgrimage to 12 Jyotirlinga temples across India, considered the holiest abode of Lord Shiva.
Offering to the Bel Tree: The bilva or bel tree is sacred to Shiva. Offering the tree's trifoliate leaves is believed to appease the deity and fulfill the wishes of devotees.
Celebrated Across Religions: Maha Shivratri is not only an occasion for Hindus, but some Buddhist and Jain communities also celebrate it, underscoring Lord Shiva's universal appeal.
Significance in Nepal: Grand-scale celebrations at the Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu attract thousands of devotees and sadhus alike.
Belief in Kailash Parvat: It is believed that on Maha Shivratri, Lord Shiva visits Mount Kailash, the mythical abode, to confer his blessing upon the devotees.
The Most Powerful Night for Yogis: Yogic traditions state that this night is best for carrying out spiritual practices, with quite emphasis on inner energies awakening.
Bhang & Shiva Connection: In some places, it is the custom to consume bhang (a preparation from cannabis), as it solely goes with the ascetic life of Shiva.
Sadhus' Procession: Naga sadhus, well known for their asceticism, walk in processions while displaying their worship through various rituals.
Shiva's Ardhanarishvara Form: Maha Shivratri is also a celebration of Shiva in his form as Ardhanarishvara, in which he manifests as half-male and half-female, representing the unification of masculine and feminine energies.
Details
Maha Shivratri, meaning "The Night of Shiva," is a major Hindu festival celebrated annually in honor of Lord Shiva, marking the divine marriage of Shiva and Parvati, observed through fasting, self-reflection, and all-night vigils. In 2025, it falls on Wednesday, February 26, with the most auspicious Nishita Kaal Puja from 12:27 AM to 1:16 AM on February 27, while the Chaturdashi Tithi lasts from 11:08 AM on February 26 to 8:54 AM on February 27. Maha Shivratri holds deep significance in Hinduism, symbolizing the divine union of consciousness and energy, spiritual awakening through devoted observance, and the cosmic dance of creation and destruction performed by Lord Shiva. Devotees observe various rituals, including fasting, staying awake in meditation and hymn recitation, performing the ceremonial Abhishekam of the Shiva Lingam with water, milk, and honey, and chanting "Om Namah Shivaya" to connect with divine consciousness. While the essence of Maha Shivratri remains the same, regional celebrations vary—Kashmir observes it as Herath with elaborate feasts and rituals, West Bengal devotees participate in fasting, prayers, and temple processions, and in Tamil Nadu, night vigils feature special musical and dance performances dedicated to Lord Shiva.
