Masik Shivratri is an important fast and festival in Hinduism, dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is observed on the Chaturdashi of the Krishna Paksha (the night before the new moon) every month. It is considered the night of the union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Shakti. On this day, worshiping Lord Shiva brings mental peace, freedom from sins, and the attainment of Moksha (liberation).
Why is Shivratri Significant?
- Spiritual Purity: Shivratri symbolizes the purification of the soul and the attainment of self-realization. It is also known as the festival of the union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Shakti.
- Freedom from Sins: It is believed that fasting on Masik Shivratri can cleanse a person of all their sins.
- Moksha: By pleasing Lord Shiva, a person progresses towards Moksha, the ultimate liberation.
- End of Troubles: Chanting and worshiping Lord Shiva on this day helps in removing all kinds of hardships and difficulties.
- Mental Peace: Worship and meditation on Lord Shiva bring mental peace and inner strength.
Masik Shivratri in January 2025 will be observed on 27th January (Monday). On this day, devotees perform puja, fast, and stay awake for night vigils. It is believed that by observing this fast, one gains the blessings of Lord Shiva, and all troubles in life are eliminated.
Masik Shivratri Rituals
The proper observance of rituals on Masik Shivratri is very important. To celebrate the day correctly, follow these steps:
- Bath and Purification
- Wake up early in the morning and bathe using Ganga water or pure water.
- Wear clean clothes and take a vow to worship Lord Shiva.
- Vow of Fasting
- Visit a Shiva temple or set up a Shiva Lingam at home.
- Take a vow to fast and observe the day in reverence to Lord Shiva.
- Fasting can include fruits, milk, and water, depending on personal capacity.
- Abhishekam of Shiva Lingam
- Perform an Abhishekam (ritual bathing) of the Shiva Lingam with water, milk, curd, honey, ghee, and Ganga water.
- Chant the mantra “Om Namah Shivaya” during the Abhishekam.
- Offering Flowers and Bilva Leaves
- Offer white flowers, Datura, Aak, and especially Bilva leaves to Lord Shiva.
- Offering Bilva leaves is considered very auspicious and beneficial.
- Lighting Incense and Lamps
- Light oil lamps in front of the Shiva Lingam and offer incense.
- Recite the Shiva Aarti or sing Shiva Bhajans like “Jai Shiv Omkara.”
- Chanting Mantras
- Chant Shiva mantras, especially the “Mahamrityunjaya Mantra” and “Om Namah Shivaya,” 108 times.
- This chanting provides mental peace and spiritual power.
- Night Vigil
- Stay awake throughout the night, performing prayers and meditation on Lord Shiva.
- You can read the Shiva Mahapurana or sing Shiva Bhajans.
Distributing Prasad
- After the puja, distribute prasad and offer food and clothes to the needy.
Legend Associated with Masik Shivratri
According to a mythological story, during the churning of the ocean (Samudra Manthan), when the poison (Halahala) emerged, Lord Shiva consumed it to save the world. As a result, his throat turned blue, and he came to be known as Neelkanth. This event is remembered and worshiped during Shivratri.
Spiritual Significance of Masik Shivratri
- Meditation and Practice: On this day, meditation and spiritual practices help in attaining inner peace and self-realization.
- Union of Shiva and Shakti: The festival represents the unique union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Shakti.
- Fruits of Actions: Worshiping Shiva leads to the proper result of one’s deeds.
- Positive Energy: Worship of Lord Shiva brings positive energy and peace into one’s life.
Other Benefits of Shivratri
- Progress in business and acquisition of wealth.
- Peace and prosperity in the family.
- Improvement in physical and mental health.
Special Notes
- A person observing the Masik Shivratri fast should practice celibacy.
- One must remain pure in mind, speech, and action.
- Lord Shiva should not be offered meat, alcohol, or tamasic foods.
The Masik Shivratri fast and rituals are not only important from a religious perspective but also for spiritual and mental peace. It is a golden opportunity to receive the blessings of Lord Shiva. By observing the fast with devotion and faith, a person is sure to receive Lord Shiva’s blessings, leading to prosperity, peace, and the path to Moksha.
