Maha Shivratri 2025 fasting guidelines: The revered Hindu festival of Maha Shivratri is celebrated with great enthusiasm each year. In 2025, it will be observed on February 26. Across India, from Kashmir to Tamil Nadu, Hindus honour Shivratri through various unique customs and with immense devotion. This festival occurs on the 14th day of the waning phase of the lunar month of Phalguna or Magha, just prior to the new moon.

On this significant day, devotees pay homage to Lord Shiva and Maa Parvati, seeking their blessings while undertaking a day-long nirjala vrat (fasting without water). For those observing this challenging fast, it is essential to be aware of the rules and the recommended practices to follow.

Maha Shivratri 2025: Know the fasting rules

• The Dos

1. Devotees are encouraged to partake in a single meal to ready their bodies and minds for the worship of Shiva on Trayodashi, which occurs the day prior to Maha Shivratri.

2. The night of Shivratri holds immense importance, and it is essential for devotees to take another bath before engaging in the Shiv Puja.

3. The Shivratri puja may be conducted either once or up to four times throughout the night.

4. On the day of the fast, devotees should rise early, take a cleansing bath, and don new attire.

5. While observing the fast, it is advisable to consume satvik and vrat-compliant foods such as fruits, milk, dairy products, and root vegetables.

6. Prior to worshipping Shiva, the Shivlinga should be bathed with water, milk, saffron, honey, and Ganga water. Additionally, devotees should light a diya and incense.

• The Don'ts

1. During the fasting period, it is essential to refrain from consuming restricted items such as grains and legumes.

2. Although coconuts may be presented to Lord Shiva, it is important to refrain from offering coconut water.

3. It is recommended to avoid consuming anything that has been offered to Lord Shiva, as it is believed to attract misfortune.

4. While observing the fast, it is advisable to limit the intake of tea and coffee, as excessive consumption may lead to dehydration.

5. Devotees should abstain from using kumkum tilak during this puja, opting instead for sandalwood paste.

6. Avoid offering flowers such as kevada and champa, as they are considered to be cursed by Lord Shiva.

Maha Shivratri 2025: Puja vidhi and rituals

During the Mahashivratri puja, devotees present offerings to Lord Shiva, including bel patra, dhatura fruit, raw rice, milk, curd, sandalwood, ghee, and water. These offerings are made with the intention of receiving blessings for success, prosperity, peace, and happiness. Additionally, devotees may choose to offer sweets prepared from milk and its derivatives, such as barfi, peda, and kheer.

On the occasion of Mahashivratri, the Shivalinga is adorned with flowers and bael leaves, while offerings of bhaang, fruits, honey, ghee, sweets, and milk are made to Lord Shiva. In the evening, congregations gather at temples to worship the Shiva Linga, lighting lamps and spending the night in devotion. Participants also engage in vibrant processions featuring Lord Shiva and Parvati, which are carried on a palanquin during the night.

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