Mahashivratri 2024: Shubh Muhurt, Significance, Puja Vidhi & More
The puja is performed meticulously across four intervals known as prayers throughout the night.
Mahashivratri celebrated according to Hindu tradition, holds profound significance as it commemorates the day of Lord Shiva's manifestation and his divine union with Goddess Parvati through marriage. It is a day of immense spiritual importance marked by fasting, prayer, chanting of mantras, and staying awake through the night in vigilance, known as Jagaran.
Each moment of Mahashivratri is considered auspicious, and devotees engage in the ritual worship of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati to seek their blessings. The puja is performed meticulously across four intervals known as prahars throughout the night.
The auspicious timings for the puja rituals during Mahashivratri in 2024 are as follows:
- First Prahara: From the evening of March 8th at 6:25 PM to 9:28 PM.
- Second Prahara: From 9:28 PM on March 8th to 12:31 AM on March 9th.
- Third Prahara: From 12:31 AM to 3:34 AM on March 9th.
- Fourth Prahara: From 3:34 AM to 6:37 AM on March 9th.
This Mahashivratri holds unique significance due to the planetary alignment. The presence of Chandra (Moon) and Mangal (Mars) together in the Makar Rashi (Capricorn) forms the auspicious "Lakshmi Yoga," indicating potential alleviation of financial obstacles and overall prosperity. Additionally, the strong positions of Chandra and Guru (Jupiter) suggest favorable conditions for career advancement and growth.
Observing the Mahashivratri fast, known as Nirjala Vrat or consuming only fruits, is considered auspicious. Devotees wake up early, take a holy bath, and visit nearby temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. They perform the ritualistic bathing of the Shiva Linga with Panchamrit (a mixture of milk, curd, ghee, honey, and sugar) and Ganga jal.
Offerings such as Bilva leaves, Dhatura, sandalwood paste, perfume, sacred thread, fruits, and sweets are made to Lord Shiva. Devotees also distribute Kheer (rice pudding) as Prasad. This puja ritual not only invokes divine blessings but also provides relief from suffering and pain.
In essence, Mahashivratri is a time for devotees to immerse themselves in devotion, seeking the divine grace of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, and to transcend worldly obstacles towards spiritual fulfillment and prosperity.
