Mahashivratri is a Hindu festival that celebrates the god Shiva and is observed by fasting, meditation, and offering prayers. Here are a few ways in which one can observe the fast on Mahashivratri:
- Nirahar (Waterless) fast: This type of fast involves refraining from eating and drinking anything throughout the day.
- Upvas (Partial) fast: During this fast, one can eat fruits, nuts, and dairy products, but avoid grains and cereals.
- Phalahar (Fruit-only) fast: As the name suggests, this type of fast allows only fruits and fruit juices to be consumed.
Regardless of the type of fast one chooses, it is considered to be incomplete without offering prayers and performing puja (ritual worship) to Lord Shiva. The fast is broken after offering prayers and witnessing the night-long vigil of Lord Shiva’s worship.
It’s important to note that Mahashivratri is a Hindu festival that celebrates the god Shiva and is observed by fasting, meditation, and offering prayers. Here are a few ways in which one can observe the fast on Mahashivratri:
Nirahar (Waterless) fast: This type of fast involves refraining from eating and drinking anything throughout the day.
Upvas (Partial) fast: During this fast, one can eat fruits, nuts, and dairy products, but avoid grains and cereals.
Phalahar (Fruit-only) fast: As the name suggests, this type of fast allows only fruits and fruit juices to be consumed.
Regardless of the type of fast one chooses, it is considered to be incomplete without offering prayers and performing puja (ritual worship) to Lord Shiva. The fast is broken after offering prayers and witnessing the night-long vigil of Lord Shiva’s worship.
It’s important to note that fasting should always be done in a safe and responsible manner, and people with certain health conditions should consult a doctor before observing any fasts.t fasting should always be done in a safe and responsible manner, and people with certain health conditions should consult a doctor before observing any fasts.
Mahashivratri how to do puja
Mahashivratri is a Hindu festival dedicated to Lord Shiva, and performing puja (ritual worship) is an important part of the celebrations. Here’s a general guideline on how to perform the puja:
- Preparation: Clean the puja area and set up a small shrine with a picture or idol of Lord Shiva, fresh flowers, incense sticks, and a lamp. You will also need a bell, a conch shell, rice, sandalwood paste, vermilion, and kumkum (red powder).
- Abhishek: Fill a copper or brass pot with water and pour it over the Shiva linga while reciting prayers. This process is called “abhishek.” Repeat this process several times, adding milk, honey, yogurt, and Ganga jal (water from the river Ganges) to the water each time.
- Offerings: Offer fruits, flowers, and sweets to the Lord. Light incense sticks and lamp, and ring the bell.
- Mantra Chanting: Chant the mantra “Om Namah Shivaya” or “Om Trimbakeshwaraya Namah” 108 times.
- Arti: Perform the arti (a ritual in which light is offered to the deity) by lighting a camphor flame and waving it in front of the idol or picture of Lord Shiva while singing hymns and devotional songs.
- Prasad: Distribute the prasad (holy offerings) among family members and friends.
It’s important to note that this is a general guideline, and the puja ceremony may vary depending on regional and personal beliefs. You can also seek guidance from a Hindu priest or seek resources online to get a more detailed and authentic understanding of the puja ceremony.
