Maha Shivaratri, one of the most significant festivals in Hinduism, is celebrated with great enthusiasm across India. Unlike many regional festivals, this auspicious day is observed throughout the country, transcending state and cultural boundaries.
However, certain renowned Shiva temples stand out for their exceptional observance of this spiritual occasion, offering devotees a vibrant, energetic, and deeply devotional atmosphere. Notably, temples such as the Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi, Somnath Temple in Gujarat, and the Brihadeeswarar Temple in Tamil Nadu are hubs where massive crowds gather to offer their prayers, seeking Lord Shiva's blessings.
Maha Shivratri falls on the 14th day of the dark fortnight (Krishna Paksha) of the Phalgun month, according to the Hindu lunar calendar. While Shivratri occurs every month, the Maha Shivratri, which takes place once a year, holds immense significance.
This particular night is believed to mark the divine union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, symbolizing the union of Shiva (the pure consciousness) and Shakti (the divine energy). It is a night of fasting, chanting, meditation, and prayer, dedicated to Lord Shiva.
On Maha Shivratri, devotees perform special rituals and pujas to honor Lord Shiva, who is believed to have transcended time and space. The worship includes offerings of milk, honey, and bilva leaves to the Shiva Lingam, along with chanting the powerful mantra "Om Namah Shivaya." It is believed that those who observe the fast and engage in night-long vigils are blessed with spiritual enlightenment, peace, and prosperity.
The festival is not just a celebration of devotion but also an opportunity to purify one's mind and soul through intense meditation and connection with the divine.
Let's know the rules and timings of the puja.
Maha Shivaratri Puja Timing:
The auspicious time of Shivratri Puja is from 12:09 pm to 12:59 pm on February 26. On this day, the worship of the four hours of the night is considered to be of special importance.
Pratham (First) Rath Prahar Puja Time - 06:19 PM to 09:26 PM
Ditiwa (Second) Rath Prahar Puja Time - 27th February from 09:26 PM to 02:34 PM
Tritiya Rath Prahar Puja Timings - 27th February from 12:34 PM to 03:41 PM
Below, we have listed a few such places in India where you can partake in the Maha Shivaratri celebrations and experience the divine presence.
Bhavnath Taleti, Junagadh, Gujarat:
Junagadh's Shivaratri Mela is a major attraction, drawing thousands of visitors. The fair, lasting for five days, offers a glimpse of Gujarat's rich culture.
Nilkanth Mahadev Temple, Haridwar, Uttarakhand:
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| Nilkanth Temple : Pic Youtube |
This temple in Haridwar attracts numerous devotees during Maha Shivaratri. People often visit the ghats at Har ki Pauri to offer prayers before heading to the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple.
Matangeshwar Temple, Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh:
Maha Shivaratri is celebrated with grandeur here, with devotees taking a dip in the Sagar tank and attending the ten-day-long fair.
Umananda Temple, Guwahati, Assam:
Situated on the peacock island in the Brahmaputra River, the Umananda Temple hosts one of the prominent Maha Shivaratri celebrations in India.
Mahakaleshwar Temple, Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh:
This temple, one of the 12 Jyotirlingas, observes Maha Shivaratri on the banks of the River Kshipra.
Srisaila Mallikarjuna Temple, Andhra Pradesh:
This temple is home to one of the 12 Jyotirlingas and celebrates Maha Shivaratri with great enthusiasm.
Bhootnath Temple, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh:
Mandi hosts an incredible Maha Shivaratri celebration, attracting Indian and international tourists to its festivities.
Tilbhandeshwar Temple, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh:
This temple in south Varanasi plays a significant role in Maha Shivaratri celebrations, where people dance in processions after consuming bhang and thandai.
Lokanatha Temple, Puri, Odisha:
Lord Rama established the linga in this temple, making it a popular destination for Shiva devotees.
Shree Somanath Jyotirlinga Temple, Veraval, Gujarat:
The Somanath Temple in Gujarat is beautifully adorned with LED lights and flowers during Maha Shivaratri, attracting a multitude of devotees.
Isha Yoga Center, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu:
This centre, founded by Sadhguru, hosts special Maha Shivaratri celebrations with dance, music, meditation and night-long satsang.
While these 11 places offer unique Maha Shivaratri experiences, Nashik (Maharashtra), Srikalahasti (Andhra Pradesh), and the Kashmir Valley also celebrate the festival with fasting, prayers, and fairs, showcasing the devotion and excitement of Lord Shiva's disciples.