“India has two million gods and worships them all. In religion all other countries are paupers; India is the only millionaire.”  Mark Twain in his book: Following the Equator

Mahasivaratri - the night of the worship of Shiva, occurs on the 14th night of the new moon during the dark half of the month of Phalguna. This year it fell on 26th February. On this day Hindus offer special prayers to the Lord Shiva.

Here're three reasons to celebrate Shivaratri:
1. The absolute formless God, Sadashiv appeared in the form of "Lingodbhava Moorti" exactly at midnight on Maha Shivaratri. That is why all Shiva devotees keep vigil during the night of Shivaratri and do "Shiva Lingam Abhishekam" at midnight.

Did You Know?
God in his manifestation as Vishnu made his appearance as Krishna at Gokul at midnight, 180 days after Shivaratri, commonly known as Janmashtami. Thus, the circle of one year is divided into two by these two auspicious days of the Hindu Calendar.

2. Lord Shiva was married to Devi Parvati on Shivaratri. Remember Shiva minus Parvati is pure 'Nirgun Brahman'. With his illusive power, (Maya, Parvati) He becomes the "Sagun Brahman" for the purpose of the pious devotion of his devotees.

3. It is also believed that on Shivaratri, Lord Shiva became 'Neelkantham' or the blue-throated by swallowing the deadly poison that came up during the churning of "Kshir Sagar" or the milky ocean. The poison was so deadly that even a drop in His stomach, which represents the universe, would have annihilated the entire world. Hence, He held it in His neck, which turned blue due to the effect of poison. Shivaratri is therefore also a day of thanksgiving to the Lord for protecting us from annihilation.

4. Lingodbhava: Maha Shivaratri also marks the day when Lord Shiva appeared in the form of an infinite column of light, known as Lingodbhava. In this form, he demonstrated that he has no beginning or end, signifying his supreme power and eternal existence. This event is commemorated on Maha Shivratri.

The 14th shloka of Shivmahimna Stotra says: "O three eyed Lord, when the poison came up through the churning of the ocean by the gods and demons, they were all aghast with fear as if the untimely end of all creation was imminent. In your kindness, you drank all the poison that still makes your throat blue. O Lord, even this blue mark does but increase your glory. What is apparently a blemish becoming an ornament in one intent on ridding the world of fear."

 Maha Shivaratri, devotees offer various items to Lord Shiva when they do Abhishekam.  These offerings hold special significance and are believed to please the deity. Here are the common offerings made to Lord Shiva:
1. Bilva Leaves (Bel Patra): These leaves are considered sacred to Lord Shiva and are one of the most important offerings.
2. Milk: Milk is offered to purify the soul and is believed to bring peace and blessings.
3. Honey: Honey is offered to attract sweetness and prosperity into life.
4. Curd (Yogurt): Curd is said to have a cooling effect and is offered for good health.
5. Water: Fresh water is poured over the Shivling to purify it and seek blessings.
6. Gangajal: Water from the Ganges (Gangajal) is considered highly sacred and is used in the Abhishek.
7. Sugarcane Juice: Sugarcane juice is offered to bring sweetness and prosperity.
8. Chandan (Sandalwood): Sandalwood paste is applied on the Shivling to bring calmness and spiritual growth.

Maha Shivaratri is a deeply spiritual and significant festival for Hindus, dedicated to worshipping Lord Shiva. It holds immense importance not only as a day of fasting and prayer but also as a time to seek blessings for peace, prosperity, and spiritual growth. The rituals, fasting rules, and special prayers conducted during this festival help devotees connect with Lord Shiva and cultivate inner peace.
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