Mahashivratri 2024: One of the trinity, Lord Shiva, is a destroyer and a transformer. Hindus celebrate Shivratri and Mahashivratri as two major festivals dedicated to Lord Shiva. While these festivals might seem similar due to their names or shared focus on Lord Shiva, they have different significance and traditions.
This article will help you understand the nuances between Shivratri and Mahashivratri and their significance.
Shivratri
Shivratri, popularly known as ‘Masik Shivratri’ falls every month. Although Lord Shiva and Mother Parvati are worshipped throughout the year, the Shivaratri celebration holds special significance for Shiva believers.
According to Hindu tradition, it is celebrated on the 14th day of each lunar month, just before the moon’s phase shifts. People celebrate the day with fasting, prayers, and meditation sessions.
Mahashivratri 2024 Date: When is Maha Shivratri and Why It Is Celebrated Every Year?
Mahashivratri
Mahashivratri is one of the most spiritually significant of the 12 Shivratri that take place in a calendar year. This religious event takes place in the month of Falgun on the Chaturdashi of Krishna Paksha, which usually coincides with the February or March month of the Gregorian calendar. According to legend, Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati got married on the Chaturdashi of Krishna Paksha in the month of Falgun. As a result, this festival marks Shiva and Parvati’s marriage.
The day holds great spiritual and religious significance for devotees of Lord Shiva. The day is celebrated with great joy and devotion.
In conclusion, Shivratri and Mahashivratri stand as pillars of devotion and reverence towards Lord Shiva, symbolizing various aspects of his divine nature and cosmic significance. While Shivratri marks the monthly celebration of Shiva's marriage and his cosmic dance, Mahashivratri is an annual festival observed with fasting, prayer, and meditation, emphasizing the importance of overcoming darkness and ignorance. Despite their differences, both festivals unite devotees in their unwavering devotion and seek to awaken the spiritual essence within each soul.
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