Mahashivratri 2019 FAQs: Date, Significance, History, Muhurat, Puja Timings, All Questions Answered About Maha Shivratri

Maha Shivratri (Mahashivratri), an annual Hindu festival, is observed in honour of Lord Shiva, who is popularly known as a destroyer of evil. Maha Shivratri, also known as the great night of Lord Shiva, is celebrated in later winter and before the arrival of the summer season. During Maha Shivratri celebrations, devotees remember Lord Shiva by visiting his temples, chant sermons, observe fast and meditate. Scroll down to know answers of FAQs or frequently asked questions regarding the date, history, significance, holiday, Muhurat and Puja timings on Mahashivratri.

What is the significance of Maha Shiv Ratri? Why do people celebrate Maha Shivratri?

According to believers, Shiva saved the world from destruction. Hindu scholars say Maha Shivaratri was the day when Shiva drank poisonous negativity to protect the world. The significance of Maha Shivratri is described differently by legends. According to one legend, Maha Shivratri is the night when Shiva performs the heavenly dance of creation, preservation and destruction. It is observed to mark a remembrance of 'overcoming darkness and ignorance' in life and the world. Mahashivratri 2019: Easy Bhang Recipes You Can Make This Maha Shivratri to Relish the ‘Nectar of the Gods’.

How do people celebrate Mahashivratri?

As part of Maha Shivratri celebrations, devotees remember Lord Shiva by visiting his temples, chant religious sermons, observe fast and meditate. The ardent devotees keep awake all night. On Maha Shivratri, Om Namah Shivaya, the sacred mantra of Shiva, is chanted through the day in Shiva temples. Special Puja is held at homes and temples. Mahashivratri 2019: Visit These Lord Shiva Temples in India to Witness The Best of Maha Shivaratri.

When is Maha Shivratri? Know date here.

Maha Shivratri is observed on the 14th night of the new moon in the month of Phalguna. This year, the annual festival will be celebrated on March 4 and will be extended till March 5 for Mahashivratri celebrations.

Is Maha Shivratri a national holiday?

Maha Shivratri is a national holiday. It means government offices and educational institutes will be shut on March 4.

Muhurta and Puja timings for Maha Shivratri:

According to drikpnchang.com, the Nishita Kaal Puja time is 12:14 am to 1:03 am. The duration will be 49 minutes. Maha Shivaratri Parana time will be 6:49 am to 3:33 pm. Below are timings for other Pujas.

Ratri First Prahar Puja Time = 6:28 pm to 9:33 pm

Ratri Second Prahar Puja Time = 9:33 pm to 12:38 am

Ratri Third Prahar Puja Time = 12:38 am to 3:44 am

Ratri Fourth Prahar Puja Time = 3:44 am to 6:49 am.

Unlike most festivals, Maha Shivratri is celebrated at night and is a solemn event. The biggest celebration is held in Ujjain where Lord Shiva is believed to have stayed.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Mar 01, 2019 04:39 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).