TOP 10 FACTS ABOUT MAHA SHIVARATRI

1. Maha Shivaratri is a Hindu festival celebrated in honor of Lord Shiva, one of the three major deities in Hinduism, who represents the power of destruction and creation.

2. The festival is observed on the 14th day of the Hindu lunar month of Phalguna, which usually falls between February and March in the Gregorian calendar.

3. The name "Maha Shivaratri" literally means "the great night of Shiva", and it is believed that Lord Shiva performed the Tandava dance on this night.

4. It is a day of fasting and devotees typically refrain from consuming food or water for the duration of the festival, which lasts for one day and one night.

5. On this day, Hindus visit Shiva temples and offer prayers to the Lingam, a symbol of Lord Shiva.

6. Devotees also chant mantras and hymns dedicated to Lord Shiva, such as the "Om Namah Shivaya" mantra.

7. The festival is particularly important in the Shaivism tradition of Hinduism, which regards Lord Shiva as the supreme deity.

8. The festival is also observed in Nepal and some other parts of India, and is a public holiday in some regions.

9. Some devotees stay awake all night on Maha Shivaratri, engaging in spiritual practices such as meditation and reading sacred texts.

10. It is believed that observing Maha Shivaratri with devotion and purity of heart can lead to the attainment of blessings and forgiveness of sins, and can help one overcome obstacles in life.