The story behind the Maha Shivratri festival

EMN Dimapur, February 17 There are many mythological stories pertaining to the celebration of Maha Shivratri. It is believed that the formless God appeared in the form of “Lingodbhav Moorti” at midnight on Maha Shivratri. This is said to be the reason as to why Shiva devotees keep vigil at night and offer prayers to the Lord. It is also believed that Hindu devotees stay awake whole night to give company to God Shiva, who was not supposed to fall asleep after drinking the ocean poison (Kalakootam). Devotees believe that Lord Shiva married Devi Parvati on Shivratri. Thus, the day is the union of Shiva and Shakti, the two greatest forces of the Universe.The day is considered auspicious for women. They fast and pray to the Lord to get blessed with blissful married life, while unmarried woman would pray for an ideal husband like Shiva. Maha Shivratri is also celebrated to mark the day when the Lord saved the world from destruction. The ocean was churned (Samudra Manthan), a pot of poison emerged which gods and the demons believed would cause destruction to the entire world. Shiva consumed the deadly poison to save the world. However, the Lord held the poison in his throat instead of swallowing it. And the Lord's throat turned blue due to the poison's effect which is why Shiva is also known as Neelkanth. Kinds of offerings According to Shiv Purana, the following items are a must: Shiva Linga must be bathed with water, milk and honey. Also, bilva patra must be offered to the lord as it purifies the soul. Vermilion must be applied over Shiva Linga after bathing, it represents virtue. Symbolising longevity, different kinds of fruits are offered to the Linga for the fulfillment of wishes. What follows is lighting incense sticks, as it stands for yielding wealth. After incense, it is time to light a lamp which refers to attainment of knowledge. Offering bilva patra stands for satisfaction from the worldly pleasures. There might be a slight difference in the way people belonging to several castes and clans worship the deity. (source: newindianexpress)