Mahashivaratri (also known as the Great Night of Shiva) is observed on the 14th day of the dark half of the month of Magha or Phalgun. As per the Gregorian calendar, this festival falls in the month of February or March every year. It is an auspicious occasion to honor Lord Shiva. Here are some interesting facts about this festival.
Mahashivaratri Mysteries: 10 Interesting Facts You Need to Know!
1. Mahashivaratri is said to have originated in the 5th century BCE. It has been mentioned in many puranas.
2. Astronomically speaking, on Mahashivaratri, the northern hemisphere of Earth is positioned in such a way, that there is a natural increase in the energy levels of individuals.
3. Astrologically, the alignment of the sun and moon is conducive for practices like worship and meditation.
4. Since Mahashivaratri is a time good for spiritual growth, it is advisable to meditate through the night sitting upright. The spine should be erect, as this helps ease the flow of energy through the body.
5. Mahashivaratri is believed to be the night Lord Shiva married Parvati. So, symbolically, it is the night when Shiva tattva merged with Shakti, which is why there is more positivity and peace in the environment on Mahashivaratri. This night is conducive for observing spiritual practices.
6. It is said to be the night when Lord Shiva performs Tandava, the dance of creation, preservation and destruction. It is believed to mark the time when Lord Shiva attained absolute stillness after meditation. So, Mahashivaratri is considered as the night of stillness.
7. Seers advise that one should wake up early on the Brahma muhurtam, take an early bath and wear white clothes on this day. Among the things to do on Mahashivaratri is fasting. One should fast on the day preceding Mahashivaratri and worship the lingam at night.
8. Devotees of Shiva chant the mantra Aum Namah Shivaay throughout the night of Mahashivaratri. Aum is the sound of the universe. The letters ‘na’, ‘ma’, ‘shi’, ‘va’, ‘ya’ are believed to signify the five elements of nature – Earth, water, fire, air and ether. Wise people advise chanting of this mantra on Mahashivaratri, in order to harmonize the five elements.
9. A legend has it that on Mahashivaratri, Lord Shiva swallowed the poison that was churned out during the Samudra Manthana.
10. It is believed that on Mahashivaratri, Goddess Ganga descended from the heavens to the Earth, posing a threat to life on the planet. To save the Earth from destruction, Lord Shiva is said to have caught Ganga in his locks and sent her to the Earth in the form of streams. So, it is a custom to bathe the shivalinga on Mahashivaratri.
5 Essential Insights into Mahashivaratri Celebrations
11. Historically, dance festivals have been held at various Hindu temples like Chidambaram, Khajuraho and Konark. Today, fairs are organized at main Jyotirlinga Shiva temples in India, like Somanatha and Varanasi.
12. Mahashivratri at the Isha Yoga Center in Coimbatore is a vibrant celebration set against the captivating backdrop of Velliangiri foothills. Set for 15th February this year, this nightlong festival promises an enchanting blend of explosive meditations and mesmerizing musical performances by Sounds of Isha and other renowned artists, drawing participants from far and wide.
In the mystic presence of Sadhguru, this celestial festival unfolds profound spiritual possibilities. The event offers a unique opportunity to connect with the exuberant festivities and guided meditations through live webstreams on isha.sadhguru.org, transcending geographical boundaries.
As the night progresses, traditional and martial arts performances by Isha Samskriti students infuse cultural richness into the celebration. The Adiyogi Divya Darshanam, a captivating video imaging show, unveils the mystique of yoga’s origin.
As the clock strikes midnight, Sadhguru initiates a highly anticipated meditation, urging participants to commence the practice in their respective time zones, starting 20 minutes before midnight.
Throughout the event, the air reverberates with the pulsating energy of performances, featuring music, dance, and cultural expressions from celebrated artists. Mahashivratri at the Isha Yoga Center transcends the traditional festival experience; it’s a transformative journey into the depths of spirituality, creating an immersive and resonant connection with the essence of this auspicious night.
13. One of the famous sites of Mahashivaratri celebrations is Mandi, a town in Himachal Pradesh. It is believed that over 200 gods and goddesses of the region gather here on Mahashivaratri.
14. Among the other biggest celebrations of Mahashivaratri, is the one in Tamil Nadu, held in Tiruvannamalai at the Annamalaiyar temple, known for Girivalam, a 14-km barefoot walk around Shiva’s temple.
15. Interestingly, Mahashivaratri is a national holiday in Nepal. It is a custom for married women to pray for the well-being of their husbands and for unmarried women to pray for a husband like Shiva. The festival is celebrated with great pomp in many temples in Nepal, especially Pashupathinath.
These were some intriguing facts about the origin of Mahashivaratri, the legends around this festivity, and the present-day celebrations.
All in all, this festival observed to honor Lord Shiva, is a night to reflect on yourself through meditation and prayer, and bring peace and harmony in your life. How do you celebrate Mahashivaratri, let us know?
