Mahashivratri 2023 Date, Time, and Significance: All You Need to Know – Times of India
Maha Shivratri 2023 Date and Time
| Maha Shivaratri Date | Saturday, February 18, 2023 |
| Nishita Kaal Puja Time | 12:09 AM to 01:00 AM, Feb 19 |
| Ratri First Prahar Puja Time | 06:13 PM to 09:24 PM |
| Ratri Second Prahar Puja Time | 09:24 PM to 12:35 AM, Feb 19 |
| Ratri Third Prahar Puja Time | 12:35 AM to 03:46 AM, Feb 19 |
| Ratri Fourth Prahar Puja Time | 03:46 AM to 06:56 AM, Feb 19 |
| Chaturdashi Tithi Begins | 08:02 PM on Feb 18, 2023 |
| Chaturdashi Tithi Ends | 04:18 PM on Feb 19, 2023 |
| Shivaratri Parana Time | 06:56 AM to 03:24 PM on Feb 19, 2023 |
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Significance of Mahashivratri Fasting
The significance of Maha Shivratri is rooted in Hindu mythology and is associated with several legends. According to one legend, it is said that Lord Shiva saved the world from darkness and ignorance by drinking the poisonous elixir that was produced during the churning of the ocean by the gods and demons. The day is observed to celebrate this event and to honor Lord Shiva’s victory over evil. Know more about Maha Shivratri Puja Rituals
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Another legend associated with Maha Shivratri is the story of the union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. It is said that on this day, Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati were married and their union represents the union of the individual self (jivatma) with the universal self (paramatma).
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How to get blessings of Lord Shiva on Mahashivratri?
There are several ways to please Lord Shiva on Maha Shivratri, including:
- Fasting: Observing a fast on Maha Shivratri is considered to be one of the most important ways to please Lord Shiva. The fast involves refraining from food and water for a specified period of time, and is believed to purify the body and mind.
- Offerings: Offerings of milk, honey, fruit, and bel leaves are considered to be very auspicious on Maha Shivratri and are said to please Lord Shiva. The offerings symbolize purity and devotion.
- Mantra chanting: Chanting the “Om Namah Shivaya” mantra is considered to be very powerful on Maha Shivratri and is believed to bring blessings and fulfillment of desires.
- Puja: Performing a puja (worship ceremony) to Lord Shiva on Maha Shivratri is considered to be very auspicious. The puja involves lighting a lamp, offering flowers and incense, and reciting prayers and mantras.
- Bathing in the Ganges: Bathing in the Ganges river, which is considered to be sacred in Hinduism, on Maha Shivratri is believed to bring blessings and purification.
- Visiting a temple: Visiting a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva on Maha Shivratri and offering prayers and offerings is considered to be a very auspicious act.
- Helping others: Performing acts of kindness and helping others is considered to be a way to please Lord Shiva on Maha Shivratri.
- Listening to bhajans: Listening to bhajans (devotional songs) dedicated to Lord Shiva is considered to be a way to please the deity on Maha Shivratri.
Maha Shivratri Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- When is Maha Shivratri?
Mahashivratri will be observed on Saturday, February 18, 2023. It is observed on the 14th day of the Hindu calendar month of Phalguna, which usually falls in the months of February or March in the Gregorian calendar. - Why is Maha Shivratri celebrated?
Maha Shivratri is celebrated to mark the day when Lord Shiva was married to the goddess Parvati. According to Hindu mythology, it is believed that Lord Shiva saved the world from destruction on this day and this festival is a way to pay homage to him. - What are the rituals performed during Maha Shivratri?
Some of the common rituals performed during Maha Shivratri include fasting, staying awake all night, offering prayers and offerings to Lord Shiva, and chanting mantras dedicated to him. People also visit Shiva temples to offer their prayers and perform special puja ceremonies. - What is the significance of staying awake all night during Maha Shivratri?
Staying awake all night during Maha Shivratri is considered to be auspicious as it symbolizes one’s devotion and devotion to Lord Shiva. It is believed that by staying awake, one can earn the blessings of Lord Shiva and attain spiritual purity. - Can non-Hindus participate in the celebrations of Maha Shivratri?
Absolutely! People from all backgrounds and cultures are welcome to participate in the celebrations of Maha Shivratri. The festival is a celebration of spiritual unity and all are welcome to join in the prayers and offerings to Lord Shiva.
