Maha Shivaratri
Maha Shivaratri is one of the most auspicious festivals of Hindus. It is celebrated with great enthusiasm and fervour all over the country. Maha Shivratri falls on 13th night/ 14th day of Krishna paksha (waning moon) in the month of Maagha, according to the Hindu calendar. It is celebrated as the wedding day of lord Shiva and Parvati. There is also another belief that this was the day when the effulgent Shiva Lingams appeared on the earth in the form of Jyotir Lingam.
Shiva devotees observe fast throughout the day and night and take only fruits and water. They perform various rituals by doing rurdrabhishek and elaborative pujan and pour water over the Shiva Lingam in the wee morning hours. Leaves of Bael tree are also offered. Devotees sing religious songs and recite mantras during the day time. Meditation is carried out as the night falls. International Mandi Shivratri fair is held every year in Himachal Pradesh to celebrate the day.
By : Mayank Narang (Student of St. Mark's Sr. Sec. Public School, Janakpuri)
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