Maha Shivratri, meaning “The Great Night of Shiva,” is a significant Hindu festival dedicated to Lord Shiva. Celebrated annually on the 14th night of the lunar month of Phalguna, it marks the convergence of divine energies and is observed with fasting, night-long vigils, and prayers. Maha Shivratri 2025 will be observed on February 26. Devotees chant mantras, offer sacred items like milk, bel leaves, and honey to the Shivling, and seek Lord Shiva’s blessings for strength, wisdom, and prosperity. The festival signifies the triumph of light over darkness and is considered an auspicious time for spiritual awakening and self-reflection.  As you observe Maha Shivratri 2025, here are the traditional recipes of different food items and prasad which are commonly offered during the festive day.

1. Thandai – A cooling milk-based drink infused with almonds, fennel seeds, rose petals, and saffron, often consumed to keep the body energized during fasting. 

Watch Video of Thandai Recipe:

2. Sabudana Khichdi – A light yet filling dish made with soaked tapioca pearls, peanuts, potatoes, and mild spices, commonly eaten during vrat (fasting). 

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3. Makhana Kheer – A delicious and nutritious dessert made from fox nuts (makhana), milk, sugar, and cardamom, offering a creamy texture and rich flavor. Mahashivratri 2025 Celebrations: Famous Places Across India To Visit and Witness the Grand Maha Shivaratri Festival. 

Watch Video of Makhana Kheer Recipe:

4. Bael Sherbet – A refreshing juice made from bael fruit (wood apple), which is sacred to Lord Shiva and known for its cooling and digestive properties.  

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5. Dry Fruits Laddoo – A wholesome sweet treat made with dates, figs, almonds, cashews, and other dry fruits, providing an instant energy boost during fasting.

Watch Video of Dry Fruits Laddoo Recipe:

Maha Shivratri is more than just a religious event; it is a time for inner growth, devotion, and self-discipline. As devotees immerse themselves in prayers and fasting, they seek to align with Shiva’s divine qualities of strength, compassion, and detachment from material desires. The festival serves as a reminder of the eternal cosmic dance of creation and destruction, encouraging individuals to embrace spiritual wisdom and live a life of balance and harmony.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Feb 25, 2025 08:58 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).