Mahashivratri is the most auspicious day is dedicated to Lord Shiva. In 2015, Shivratri will be celebrated on February 17. Shivaratri is marked on February 17. A night before amavasya is observed as the holy night of Shiva in the Hindu month of Phalgun (February & March) as per traditional Hindu calendar followed in North India. The corresponding period in other regions is the night before Magh Amavasya.
Most Hindu festivals are noted for its mirth and color but Shivratri is a night dedicated to prayers and contemplation. When Lord Shiva is worshipped there is an atmosphere of joy all around but not just joy but bliss that is achieved through Brahman realization & When Lord Shiva is seen in all animate and inanimate.
We attain Moksha when we realize that it is his Tandava that creates each cell and because of his Tandava the transformation of each cell occurs.
Planetary Position on Shivaratri Night
It is believed that it creates an upsurge of energy in the human being due to planetary positions align in such a way on Shivratri night. Traditionally it is known to be beneficial both physically and spiritually to stay awake and aware through the night.
Mahashivratri and Amavasya (No Moon)
Shivratri is closely associated with the amavasaya - the no moon night or full dark night and has a significance as per traditional Hindu Calendar. Amavas is the symbol of Kaliyuga or spiritual ignorance. It is believed that Lord Shiva appeared just before the beginning of Kaliyuga to rid the world of evil and ignorance. Therefore Shivratri is celebrated to get rid of evil and ignorance.
There is also a Masa Shivratri which is observed on thirteenth day of Krishna Paksha (waning phase of the moon) in all traditional Hindu months.
Team AskGanesha wishes you all a very Happy Mahashivratri. Stay blessed.
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