Maha Shivratri Vrat

Maha Shivratri is the great night of Shiva. The katha tells how a hunter named Gurudruha, unknowingly sheltering in a bilva tree above a Shiva Linga, accidentally performed a perfect vigil — fasting, dropping bilva leaves, and staying awake all night — and was thereby liberated. It teaches that Shiva's grace is accessible to all, even through accidental devotion.

Phalguna Krishna Chaturdashi (14th day of waning moon in Phalguna month) — typically February/March. The night is divided into 4 prahars for worship.

Observing Maha Shivratri with fasting, night vigil, and Shiva worship grants liberation (moksha). Even unknowing worship on this night carries immense merit. It removes the most serious sins and grants the direct darshan of Lord Shiva.

Fast the entire day without food (nirjala or fruit-only). Visit a Shiva temple at night. The night is divided into 4 prahars — perform abhishek in each prahar: first with milk, second with curd, third with ghee, fourth with honey. Offer bilva leaves, white flowers, bhasma, and dhatura throughout the night. Chant "Om Namah Shivaya" continuously. Stay awake the entire night (jagran). Break the fast the next morning after sunrise puja.