"Maha Shivratri" translates to "the Great Night of Shiva." It marks the night when Shiva performed the Tandava Nritya, the dance of primal creation, preservation, and destruction.
Maha Shivratri is celebrated annually on the 13th night/14th day in the Krishna Paksha (waning moon) of the month of Phalguna in the Hindu calendar.
Devotees observe fasts and perform night vigils called Jagaran, staying awake throughout the night to meditate, sing devotional songs, and chant prayers in honor of Lord Shiva.
The festival involves the ritual washing (Abhishek) of the Shiva Lingam with milk, honey, water, and bael leaves. This offering symbolizes purification of the soul.
The Shiva Lingam is worshipped during Maha Shivratri, symbolizing the unity of Shiva and Shakti
Maha Shivratri is considered an auspicious time for overcoming darkness and ignorance in life. It is believed that praying to Lord Shiva on this day can lead to salvation and liberation.
Some regions in India celebrate Maha Shivratri as the night when Shiva and Parvati got married, marking the union of the divine couple.
Apart from India, Maha Shivratri is also celebrated by Hindus in Nepal, Mauritius, Fiji, and other countries with a significant Hindu population.
Maha Shivratri has also been associated with environmental awareness campaigns, especially by spiritual leaders, emphasizing the conservation of nature