Mahashivratri 2025: A Hindu festival dedicated to Lord Shiva, on Mahashivratri, devotees come together to offer prayers to Mahadeva to seek blessings for courage, wisdom, and prosperity.
Mahashivratri, also known as the Great Night of Shiva, falls on the 14th day of the waning moon, which occurs between February and March. This year, Mahashivratri 2025 falls on February 26, i.e., today.
On Mahashivratri, devotees engage in various religious practices, including a day-long fast (Nirjala-Vrat), performing puja, and chanting spiritual songs and mantras.
Here are essential things to keep in mind when fasting on Mahashivratri:
The Dos:
On the eve of Mahashivratri, devotees who plan to observe the Nirjala-Vrat should eat only one meal to prepare the body, mind, and soul.
Take a bath before performing Shiv Puja.
Shivratri Puja can be performed once or up to four times during the night.
Ensure to bathe the Shivlinga with water, milk, saffron, honey, and Ganga water before offering prayers to Lord Shiva.
Break the fast only with Satvik and Vrat-friendly food.
The Don’ts:
Abstain from offering coconut water to Lord Shiva.
Do not consume any food that has been offered to Lord Shiva, as it is believed that it could bring bad luck.
Avoid sleeping during the night; instead, keep chanting meditative mantras.
Refrain from using harsh or negative words.
Devotees can indulge in Satvik and Vrat-friendly foods such as root vegetables, dairy products, fruits, and nuts. Ensure to abstain from garlic and onion-based menu besides other non-vegetarian items.
Here's a step-by-step guide to performing Puja on Mahashivratri:
Give yourself a sacred bath early in the morning.
Take a vow to fast with intention.
Bathe the Shivlinga and offer Datura, Bel Patra, milk, honey, and sandalwood paste.
Recite spiritual mantras.
Stay awake at night and perform four Prahar Puja.
Break the Vrat the next morning after taking a holy bath and offering puja.
Source: RepublicWorld
