Mahashivratri, or the “Great Night of Shiva,” is a significant Hindu festival that is observed annually. It will be celebrated on February 26 in 2025. The devotees all over India pray to Lord Shiva on this day with utmost devotion, offering special prayers, fasting, and remaining awake throughout the night to obtain his blessings.
Why is Mahashivratri Celebrated?
Mahashivratri is a highly sacred day as it celebrates the wedding of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. On this night, it is also believed that Lord Shiva danced his famous Tandava, which signifies the cycle of creation, maintenance, and destruction of the world.
Numerous individuals keep fasts and recite prayers to gain blessings for a prosperous and joyful life. Couples pray for a healthy relationship, and unmarried women pray for good husbands by worshiping Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.
Train Cancellations from February 25-28
Because of the huge crowd of devotees commuting for Mahashivratri and the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, Indian Railways has canceled many trains from February 25 to 28, 2025. If you are traveling during this time, look for your train status so that you do not get inconvenienced.
Following are some crucial trains that will be canceled:
Purushottam Express (12802) – New Delhi to Puri (Feb 24-27)
Jodhpur-Howrah Express (12308) – (Feb 24-27)
Kalka-Howrah Netaji Express (12312) – (Feb 24-27)
Nandan Kanan Express (12816) – Anand Vihar to Puri (Feb 26-27)
Passengers are requested to check their train timings well in advance.
How to worship Lord Shiva on Mahashivratri?
On Mahashivratri, devotees undergo a special process called Jalabhishek, in which they pour water or milk over the Shivling (a sacred emblem of Lord Shiva). Here are some key guidelines to be followed:
- Employ the appropriate vessel: Provide water in gold, silver, brass, or copper vessels. Refrain from using steel.
- Do not provide Tulsi or turmeric: These are not deemed fit for Lord Shiva’s puja.
- Orient in the correct direction: During Jalabhishek, orient yourself southwards.
- Do not make a complete circle around Shivling: Walk halfway around it and then move back. This is a sign of respect to the holy water offered to Shiva.
Mahashivratri is a day of intense worship, prayer, and celebration. However you choose to observe the fasting, conducting the special prayers, or undertaking pilgrimage, see to it that the rituals are being done appropriately. And, of course, while traveling, just check train cancelations to preclude any inconvenience at the very last minute.
Wish you all peacefulness and joy this Mahashivratr from Lord Shiva.
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