Mumbai: Mahashivratri, one of the most revered Hindu festivals, will be celebrated this year on February 26, 2025. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the festival holds immense spiritual significance and is observed by millions of devotees across India and other parts of the world. It marks the divine union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, symbolising the balance of cosmic energies. The day is also believed to be when Lord Shiva manifested as a Shivling, settling a celestial dispute between Lord Vishnu and Lord Brahma.
Observed on the Chaturdashi Tithi of Krishna Paksha in the month of Phalguna, Mahashivratri is considered an auspicious occasion for seeking divine blessings, overcoming obstacles, and attaining peace and prosperity. Devotees observe fasts, perform Shivling Abhishek, and chant sacred mantras throughout the night to express their devotion. Temples witness large gatherings, with worshippers offering milk, bel leaves, dhatura, and bhang to Lord Shiva. Those unable to visit temples often perform rituals at home, ensuring adherence to traditional worship practices.
Mahashivratri 2025 Date and Timings
As per the Hindu calendar:
- Chaturdashi Tithi Begins: February 26, 2025, at 11:08 AM
- Chaturdashi Tithi Ends: February 27, 2025, at 8:54 AM
Since the Tithi aligns with February 26, the Mahashivratri fast and rituals will be observed on this date.
Significance of Mahashivratri
According to Hindu beliefs, observing a fast and offering prayers to Lord Shiva on Mahashivratri helps devotees overcome difficulties and attain happiness and prosperity. The festival is seen as a time for spiritual awakening, self-discipline, and devotion.
Worship Guidelines for Home
- Devotees visit temples to perform Shivling Abhishek and seek Lord Shiva’s blessings.
- If worshipping at home, a small Shivling should be installed, as per religious scriptures.
- The Shivling should not be larger than the tip of a thumb, and should be accompanied by idols of Lord Ganesha, Goddess Parvati, Lord Kartikeya, and Nandi.
Auspicious Shivling Materials
Certain materials are considered highly auspicious for worship:
✅ Gold, silver, brass, crystal (sphatik), mercury (parad), clay, or stone
❌ Avoid aluminum, steel, or iron, as they are considered inauspicious in Hindu rituals.
Mahashivratri Puja Vidhi
To perform the Mahashivratri puja, devotees follow a series of sacred rituals:
- Bathe early in the morning and wear clean clothes.
- Take a vow (sankalp) to observe the fast.
- Offer Panchamrit Abhishek (milk, curd, honey, ghee, and sugar) followed by holy water.
- Adorn the Shivling with bel leaves, dhatura, bhang, and sandalwood paste.
- Light incense sticks and an oil lamp.
- Chant Om Namah Shivaya while offering prayers.
- Conclude the puja with Aarti and prasad distribution.
Mahashivratri is a day of deep spiritual significance, encouraging devotion and inner reflection. As millions prepare to celebrate this auspicious festival, the prayers and rituals performed are believed to bring prosperity and fulfilment of wishes.
(Disclaimer: The information provided is based on traditional beliefs and religious texts. News9 Live does not independently verify the religious significance of these rituals.)
Can’t visit a temple on Mahashivratri 2025? Perform Shivling puja at home with these essential rituals. Follow the right rules to seek Lord Shiva’s blessings. Spirituality Lifestyle News -Fashion Trends, Beauty Tips, Celebrity Party News, Relationship advice, Travel and Food Tips
