Shivaratri, widely known as Maha Shivaratri, is a significant Hindu festival observed annually to honor Lord Shiva. The term “Shivaratri'' originates from the Sanskrit words “Shiva” and “ratri”, where Shiva represents the Hindu deity Shiva, a crucial figure known as the god of destruction and transformation among three major deities in Hinduism, including Lord Brahma- The creator and Lord Vishnu- The preserver. The term ratri translates to “night” in English, so Shivaratri translates to the night of Lord Shiva. This festival is dedicated to worshiping Lord Shiva and is celebrated on the 14th night of the new moon in the Hindu month of Falgun, typically in late February or early March depending on the Lunar calendar. Devotees observe Shivaratri with deep faith, engaging in meditation, chanting, and fasting as part of the festivities.
On the special occasion of Falgun Tarayodashi, it is believed that Lord Shiva manifested as a flame, making the celebration of his birthday. Devotees show deep respect by abstaining from food, either the whole day or until the next morning, symbolizing self-discipline and detachment. Temples dedicated to Lord Shiva come alive with vibrant decorations like marigold blooms, mango leaves, and banana trunks. The air is filled with rhythmic chants of mantras, and priests perform rituals, offering milk, betel leaves, and fruits to the Shiva Linga. Shivaratri’s main ritual is the “Abhishek”, symbolizing purification through the bathing of Lord Shiva with milk, water, honey, and other sacred offerings. During Jagaran, devotees recite prayers, perform “Rudra Abhishek” Puja, and offer flowers and fruits to Lord Shiva. Temples like Pashupatinath organize Jagaran programs, allowing devotees to participate in rituals and seek Lord Shiva's blessings. Pashupatinath Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and is located in Kathmandu, Nepal near the Bagmati River. This temple was classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979. During Shivaratri over a million worshippers gather at Pashupatinath temple grounds, making a colorful human pattern. People chant, pray, and ring temple bells, creating a lively atmosphere. The main highlight is the chance to see the sacred Shiva lingam inside the temple. The line is long, but people wait eagerly because of their strong beliefs.
Shivaratri happens on the darkest night of the month, symbolizing the victory of light over darkness. People believe that staying awake and practicing spirituality helps overcome inner struggles, leading to enlightenment. The festival creates a strong sense of community, bringing people together for prayers, food, music, and celebration. The whole country is filled with energy and devotion as streets light up, music plays, and people gather in temples. It's an infectious excitement that's impossible to resist.
Myths, legend, and History of Shivaratri
The Hindu festival of Shivratri is celebrated to pay homage to Lord Shiva, one of the most important deities in Hinduism. The festival takes place on the 14th day of the dark fortnight either in the Hindu month of Falgun or Magh. Shivratri is a night of spiritual significance and joyous celebration that holds a special place in Hindu beliefs because it is dedicated to Lord Shiva. According to Hindu mythology, there are various stories surrounding the origin and significance of Maha Shivratri, with one legend highlighting the sacred union of Shiva and Parvati in marriage.
After Shiva's first wife, Goddess Sati, left her body, Shiva went into deep mourning. Unaware that Sati had reincarnated as Parvati, Shiva refused to even look at her. In an attempt to unite them, the god of love, Kamadeva, shot Shiva with the arrow of love but faced Shiva's anger and lost his life. Eventually, convinced by other gods, Shiva decided to test Parvati's devotion. In an attempt to deceive her, he pretended to be an elderly ascetic and spoke ill of himself, yet Parvati remained unwavering in her commitment. When Shiva revealed his true form, he was pleased with her love and devotion, and they agreed to marry. They got married the day before a new moon in the month of Phalgun while they were returning to meet Parvati’s parents. This is considered one of the top legends of the Shivratri festival.
Another popular legend associates Shivaratri with the Churning of the cosmic ocean, where a pot of poison emerged, capable of destroying the world. To save the world and prevent its destruction, Lord Shiva drank the poison. This courageous act turned his throat blue, and he came to be known as "Nilkantha." Dedicated to lord Shiva, Pashupatinath is one of the four most religious sites in Asia for devotees of Shiva. Constructed in the 1st or 2nd century and later restored by the Malla kings, the site is believed to have been in existence since the beginning of the millennium, marked by the discovery of a Shiva lingam at this location. The big Maha Shivaratri festival in spring attracts hundreds of thousands of devotees from within Nepal and from India.
Significance of Shivaratri
Shivaratri, a festival deeply rooted in Nepal's cultural heritage for thousands of years, is a lively and ancient celebration. This festival, centered around Lord Shiva, the Hindu deity of destruction and creation, holds great significance in Hinduism. Devotees observe Maha Shivaratri with fasting, prayers, and various rituals. According to Hindu mythology, this day marks the night when Lord Shiva performs the cosmic dance of creation, preservation, and destruction, and it is believed to be the night of his marriage to Goddess Parvati. Many consider Maha Shivaratri as an auspicious night, believing that sincere worship and prayers can bring spiritual growth, blessings, and the removal of sins.
Devotees observe fasts on Maha Shivaratri as a form of penance and purification, a tradition upheld during Shivaratri in Nepal. Some abstain from food and water, while others may consume fruits and milk. Fasting is seen as a means to attain spiritual clarity and self-discipline. Throughout the night, devotees stay awake, engaging in prayer, meditation, and chanting hymns dedicated to Lord Shiva. Temples in Nepal organize special events like bhajans (devotional songs) and Rudra Abhishekam (a ritual bath of the Shiva Linga with various substances).
Maha Shivaratri symbolizes the victory of light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance. It serves as a reminder of the cyclical nature of life, death, and rebirth. The festival is also viewed as a time of spiritual renewal and rejuvenation, providing an opportunity for self-reflection, repentance, and shedding negative habits. For spiritual seekers in Nepal, Maha Shivaratri is a New Year, considered auspicious for both spiritual growth and material attainment.
On this night, when constellations are in a favorable position, meditation is considered the most important aspect of experiencing the Shiva Tattva, especially during Shivaratri in Nepal. In ancient times, people would say that even if you cannot meditate consistently, at least do it once a year on Maha Shivaratri. It is believed to be a night when waking the divinity within oneself through meditation is especially potent.
Unique Cultural Elements of Shivaratri in Nepal
Nepal celebrates Maha Shivaratri, a special festival of Hindus dedicated to Lord Shiva. This festival is important in Nepal, and people follow unique customs and traditions to show their respect and worship Lord Shiva. One special tradition during Shivaratri is Jagaran or Jaagran, where devotees stay awake all night. They sing devotional songs, perform prayers, and meditate, showing their dedication to focusing solely on the divine and overcoming sleep and distractions.
Jagaran: At Pashupatinath, a major Hindu temple in Nepal, devotees observe a night-long vigil or "jagaran" during Shivaratri. They engage in prayers, chants, and various religious activities throughout the night to pay homage to Lord Shiva. Jagaran is a popular practice on Shivaratri in both India and Nepal, offering an opportunity to purify the mind and body while establishing a deeper connection with Shiva.
Panchamrit: Another special aspect of Shivaratri is Panchamrit also known as Pancamrita meaning "five nectars," which is a special offering to Lord Shiva during Shivaratri. This mix symbolizes five things: milk for purity and earth, yogurt for fertility and water, honey for sweetness and fire, ghee for light and air, and sugar for sweetness and space. People believe that offering Panchamrit is highly auspicious, as it is thought to nourish the soul, purify the body, and attract blessings from Lord Shiva. The act of presenting these five elements is considered a sacred and significant ritual during the celebration of Shivaratri.
Rudraksha: Rudraksha beads, with their mystical charm, hold a special place during Shivaratri. These beads are believed to have originated from Lord Shiva's tears and are worn by devotees seeking blessings, protection, and spiritual growth. Wearing Rudraksha beads is thought to ward off negativity, amplify spiritual vibrations, and enhance meditation.
Bhang: Bhang, also known as cannabis, has a unique and debated role in Hindu traditions, especially during the festival of Shivaratri. According to mythology, during the cosmic ocean churning called Samudra Manthan, a deadly poison emerged, threatening to destroy everything. Lord Shiva, out of compassion, consumed the poison, turning his throat blue. To cool the burning heat, the gods offered him bhang, a calming and medicinal substance. Some regions associate bhang consumption during Shivaratri with spiritual significance, believing it helps transcend the mind's limitations for deeper meditation and connection with the divine.
Things you can do during Shivaratri
Shivaratri is an incredible night dedicated to Lord Shiva, filled with history, symbols, and spiritual importance. If you're wondering how to celebrate, think about visiting Pashupatinath. The Shivaratri celebration at Pashupatinath goes beyond a regular festival; it brings together history, devotion, and spiritual energy, creating a one-of-a-kind and impactful experience. During Shivaratri at Pashupatinath in Kathmandu, people flock to the temple to worship Lord Shiva. The unique feature of this celebration is the presence of holy men called sadhus, who come from India and Nepal. These ascetic individuals, dressed in traditional attire with dreadlocks or shaved heads, gather to honor Lord Shiva. During Shivaratri, the temple is open throughout the night, so people can pray and meditate surrounded by thousands of candles and the calming sound of chants in the air.
Fasting all-day
- Devotees observe a significant fast throughout Mahashivaratri as a way to express their dedication to Lord Shiva. This involves refraining from both food and water for 24 hours, starting in the morning of Mahashivaratri and concluding the next morning. The purpose behind this fasting tradition is to purify the body and mind, fostering a deeper spiritual connection with Lord Shiva. Additionally, it serves as a symbolic sacrifice and demonstrates an unwavering commitment to one's faith. Most people fast for the entire day during Mahashivaratri. However, some may choose shorter fasts, depending on their health or personal circumstances. During the fast, devotees also avoid activities considered impure or distracting, such as daytime sleep or using harsh language.
Performing pujas
- Performing pujas during Shivaratri can be done in various ways, depending on your preferences and traditions. Here's a simple guide to the common rituals: Start by taking a purifying bath, ideally in the holy river Ganga or with clean water before sunrise, and wear fresh, clean clothes symbolizing purity. Set up your puja area by cleaning it and decorating it with flowers and rangoli. Gather the necessary items like a Shiva idol or lingam, panchamrita, Bilva leaves, incense, diyos, and fruits. Begin the puja by declaring your purpose with a Sankalpa, then chant mantras to invite Lord Shiva's presence. Offer panchamrita to the idol, representing the five elements, and perform Abhishekam by bathing the idol with liquids like milk and honey, symbolizing purification and offering to the deity.
Attend Maha Shivaratri Puja or Rudra Puja
- Mahashivaratri, known as the night of Shiva, holds great significance in Hinduism. Celebrated on the 14th night of the month of Phalguna (February-March), devotees gather at temples like Pashupatinath in Kathmandu, Nepal, to worship Lord Shiva. The temple buzzes with devotees from around the globe. The rituals begin at midnight with abhishekam, a bathing ceremony of the Shivalinga with milk and other sacred fluids, followed by chanting, dancing, and offerings throughout the night. Fasting is observed to purify the body and mind, allowing devotees to receive Shiva's blessings more profoundly.
Attend Sandhya Aarati
- Attending the Sandhya Aarati during Shivaratri at Pashupatinath Temple is an amazing experience you won't forget. The Aarati happens twice a day, in the morning and evening during the time between day and night. During Shivaratri, the evening Aarati is the big one, drawing lots of people. It all goes down on the eastern bank of the Bagmati River, facing the temple. Crowds gather along the river, creating a lively atmosphere. Three priests, dressed up in traditional attire, lead the ceremony. They chant prayers to Lord Shiva, and everyone gets into it, adding to the energy. But the coolest part? One of the priests busts out into this wild dance called the Tandava, showing Shiva's dance of making and breaking stuff in the universe.
Meditation
- On Mahashivaratri night, people engage in significant practices like staying awake, fasting, and worshiping Shiva. Meditation becomes crucial during this time for several reasons. Shiva, who is the master of meditation, is often portrayed as deeply absorbed in it, symbolizing a direct link to his energy and consciousness. Mahashivaratri is dedicated to overcoming darkness and ignorance, and meditation plays a key role in calming the mind, enabling individuals to see beyond the world's illusions by connecting with Shiva's wisdom. The quietness of the night creates an ideal setting for meditation, minimizing distractions. Specific Shiva mantras assist in focusing the mind and connecting with Shiva's energy. To meditate effectively during Shiva Ratri, find a quiet spot, sit comfortably, close your eyes, and focus on your breath. Chant a Shiva mantra or silently repeat Shiva's name to release thoughts and attachments. Patience is crucial, and even a few minutes of meditation can have positive effects.
Conclusion
In summary, Shivaratri is a highly meaningful and spiritually uplifting Hindu festival dedicated to honoring Lord Shiva. Celebrating Shivaratri at revered places like Pashupatinath is crucial for cultural and religious reasons, representing devotion, spiritual cleansing, and the quest for divine blessings. The rituals, prayers, and lively festivities during Shivaratri unite communities, creating a sense of togetherness and shared faith. This yearly celebration not only remembers Lord Shiva's cosmic dance but also acts as a cultural legacy, safeguarding traditions passed down through generations. Shivaratri goes beyond being a religious occasion; it is a profound journey of devotion, celebration, and collective joy that goes beyond borders, linking devotees worldwide to the divine essence of Lord Shiva.
FAQs
When is Shivratri celebrated in Nepal this year?
- Maha Shivaratri Festival 2024 is set to occur on February 18th/ Falugn 6th this year, on a Saturday. It is celebrated on the 14th day of the month, considered to be the darkest night.
How is Shivaratri celebrated?
- Devotees observe fasting, visit Shiva temples, and engage in prayers and meditation. Many stay awake all night, participating in religious rituals.
What is the significance of staying awake in Shivaratri night?
- Staying awake is believed to symbolize a spiritual awakening and devotion to Lord Shiva. It is believed to cleanse the mind and body.
Is there a historical background to Shivaratri?
- The festival has various legends associated with it, including the marriage of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati and the night when Lord Shiva performed the cosmic dance, known as the Tandava.
Are there any specific rituals during Shivaratri?
- On Shivaratri, devotees fast, stay awake and go to Shiva temples. They perform special rituals by offering milk, honey, and Bilva leaves to the Shiva Lingam. The night brims with prayers, hymns, and meditation, all aimed at seeking divine blessings and achieving spiritual purity.
Can anyone celebrate Shivaratri?
- Yes, Shivaratri is open to all, regardless of age or gender. People from various backgrounds and beliefs participate in the festivities.
What is the significance of observing Shivaratri at Pashupatinath?
- Observing Shivaratri at Pashupatinath is highly significant due to the temple's deep religious and cultural importance. The temple is one of the holiest Hindu sites dedicated to Lord Shiva, seen as one of his symbolic representations called Jyotirlingas. It's believed to be Lord Pashupatinath's earthly dwelling, making it extremely sacred for Shiva devotees. Here, people find spiritual purification during Shivaratri, with the nearby Bagmati River often visited for ritualistic baths, symbolizing the cleansing of sins. Being a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Pashupatinath's cultural and historical importance is widely recognized, and celebrating Shivaratri here is an essential part of Nepal's cultural heritage. Make the answers a little shorter but to the point.
How crowded will Pashupatinath be during Shivaratri?
- Pashupatinath Temple is a highly revered site, drawing the largest crowds during Maha Shivaratri. This year's celebration, organized by the Pashupati Area Development Trust (PADT), anticipates a gathering of 1.5 million people worldwide. To ensure a successful event, the temple management has initiated a thorough cleaning of the premises. Additionally, special emphasis has been placed on finding efficient crowd management strategies, allowing devotees to perform their prayers and have a more convenient darshan. Two to three lines will be enough Approximately 5,000 security personnel will be deployed at the Pashupatinath Temple during the Maha Shivaratri celebration on Saturday.
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