As Maha Shivratri approaches, celebrity astrologer Dr Acharya Vinod Kumar Ojha has shared his thoughts on the festival, along with its significance and the rituals that should be followed. He said, “Shivratri, the night of Lord Shiva, is an auspicious occasion celebrated by millions around the world with fervor and devotion. As the Hindu calendar marks the convergence of the lunar phases on this sacred night, devotees immerse themselves in prayers, rituals, and meditation, seeking the blessings of the supreme deity, Lord Shiva.”
He added, “Shivratri transcends geographical boundaries, uniting devotees worldwide in the celebration of divine grace and spiritual awakening. From the banks of the Ganges in India to temples in Nepal, Mauritius, and beyond, devotees gather to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva. In recent years, Shivratri celebrations have gained popularity beyond traditional Hindu communities, with people from diverse backgrounds joining in the festivities. The universal appeal of Shivratri lies in its message of peace, unity, and spiritual transcendence, resonating with people of all faiths and beliefs.”
Acharya Ojha ji, also shared that the festival is “The Night of Shiva”, and holds immense significance in Hindu mythology and spirituality. “It is believed to be the night when Lord Shiva performs the heavenly dance of creation, preservation, and destruction, known as the tandava. Devotees observe fasts, visit temples, and chant sacred hymns throughout the night to commemorate this cosmic event,” he said.
“Shivratri is not merely a religious festival but a spiritual journey for devotees. It symbolizes the victory of light over darkness and the triumph of good over evil. Lord Shiva, often revered as the destroyer of ignorance and the embodiment of compassion, guides his devotees towards self-realization and spiritual enlightenment,” he added.
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As for the rituals, he asserted that the celebration of Shivratri varies across regions and communities, but certain rituals, like fasting and prayers, are common. He added, “Devotees observe strict fasts on Shivratri, abstaining from food and water throughout the day and night. Fasting is believed to purify the body and soul, enabling devotees to attain spiritual purity and connect with the divine.”
The other ritual that is followed on Shivratri is Abhishekam, which is the ceremonial bathing of the Shiva Lingam, with water, milk, honey, yogurt, and other sacred substances. This ritual signifies the purification of the soul and the offering of devotion to Lord Shiva. Devotees also visit temples to offer prayers and perform Aarti, a ritual of waving lighted lamps before the deity. Offerings of fruits, flowers, and incense are made as expressions of reverence and gratitude.
He also shared, “Devotees stay awake throughout the night, engaging in meditation, chanting sacred mantras like the Mahamrityunjaya Mantra, and listening to discourses on the glory of Lord Shiva. It is believed that staying awake on Shivratri cleanses one’s sins and brings spiritual awakening.”
Acharya ji believes that, at its core, Shivratri is a celebration of introspection, renewal, and transcendence. “It serves as a reminder of the eternal truths of existence—the impermanence of life, the power of devotion, and the ultimate reality beyond the material world. As devotees immerse themselves in the divine aura of Shivratri, they seek not just blessings but also inner transformation and enlightenment,” he said, with a message, “In Shivratri 2024, let us embark on this spiritual journey with renewed zeal and devotion, honoring the divine presence within and around us. May the grace of Lord Shiva guide us towards truth, wisdom, and eternal bliss. Har Har Mahadev!”
