**The Untold Story of Mahashivratri: The Mystery of Liberation through Devotion**
Mahashivratri is an extremely sacred and significant festival for Hindus. This day is dedicated to the worship of Lord Shiva. It is celebrated every year on the "Chaturdashi Tithi of Krishna Paksha" in the month of "Phalguna" as bengali Calendar. This night is highly important for Shiva devotees, as it is believed that on this night, one can receive the blessings of "Lord Shiva" and be liberated from all life's troubles.
The Significance of Mahashivratri;
"Mahashivratri" is not just a religious festival; it is also an opportunity for spiritual awakening. On this day, devotees observe a fast, offer milk, water, bel leaves, and flowers to the Shiva Linga, and chant the mantra "Om Namah Shivaya." This night also commemorates the marriage of Shiva and Parvati, symbolizing love and unity among Shiva devotees.
How is Mahashivratri Celebrated?
1. Fasting: Devotees fast throughout the day, consuming only **fruits and water**.
2. Worship: Milk, water, bel leaves, incense, and flowers are offered to the Shiva Linga.
3. Mantra Chanting: The mantra "Om Namah Shivaya" is chanted, and the glories of Lord Shiva are sung.
4. Night Vigil: Devotees stay awake all night, immersed in meditation and prayers.
**The Glory of Shivratri: The Hunter's Story**
A story from the Shiva Purana highlights the greatness of Shivratri.
Once, a hunter went to the forest to hunt. Despite trying all day, he couldn't catch anything. In the evening, tired, he sat under a bilva tree to rest. Unknowingly, there was a Shiva Linga beneath the tree. He spent the entire night there, and droplets of dew from his body fell onto the Shiva Linga. As he moved, bel leaves also fell onto the Linga.
Coincidentally, that night was Shivratri. Unknowingly, the hunter observed a fast and offered bel leaves to the Shiva Linga. In this way, he performed the rituals of Shivratri.
When the hunter's time of death arrived, "Yamadutas" (messengers of death) came to take his soul. However, Shiva's messengers took his soul to "Shiva's abode". The "Yamadutas", surprised, went to Shiva's court and said, "This hunter committed sins all his life. His soul does not deserve to go to Shiva's abode."
Shiva's attendant, Nandi, then explained, "Yes, this hunter committed sins throughout his life, but the greatness of Shivratri has freed him from all his sins. By Shiva's grace, he has now attained a place in Shiva's abode."
This story highlights the glory of Shivratri and teaches us that sincere devotion and reverence to Lord Shiva can wash away all sins.
The Spiritual Significance of Mahashivratri :
The "Mahashivratri" is not just a religious event; it is an opportunity for self-purification and spiritual growth. On this day, devotees gain the strength to overcome inner darkness and move towards the light. The worship of Shiva brings peace and stability to the mind and liberates one from all sorrows and sufferings.
**Conclusion**
"Mahashivratri" is a sacred day dedicated to the devotion and reverence of Lord Shiva. On this day, by receiving Shiva's blessings, devotees can overcome all obstacles in life. Let us all worship Shiva on this holy day and pray for peace and prosperity in our lives.
**May Shiva's blessings illuminate your life!**
**Om Namah Shivaya.** **Har Har Mahadev**
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