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Mahashivratri, one of the most significant festivals for Hindus, is a time when devotees come together to worship Lord Shiva. This auspicious occasion holds great importance as it is believed that on Mahashivratri, Lord Shiva fulfills the wishes of his devotees. As you prepare to celebrate this divine festival, it is essential to be aware of the things you should avoid doing to ensure that your worship is performed with utmost reverence. In this article, we will guide you through the dos and don'ts of Mahashivratri, ensuring that you have a spiritually fulfilling experience.
The Significance of Mahashivratri
Before we delve into the don'ts of Mahashivratri, it is essential to understand the significance of this sacred day. Mahashivratri, which translates to "the great night of Shiva," is celebrated on the 14th day of the dark fortnight in the month of Phalgun according to the Hindu lunar calendar. This day holds immense spiritual significance as it is believed to mark the marriage of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Devotees believe that by observing fasts, performing rituals, and seeking the blessings of Lord Shiva, they can attain spiritual enlightenment and liberation from the cycle of birth and death.
Don'ts for Mahashivratri
While Mahashivratri offers a lot of flexibility in terms of rituals, there are certain things that devotees should avoid doing on this auspicious day. Here are the don'ts of Mahashivratri:
1. Avoid Applying Vermilion on Lord Shiva
It is best for women to avoid applying vermilion (sindoor) on Lord Shiva during the worship. Instead, sandalwood paste can be used as an alternative.
2. Refrain from Wearing Black
On Mahashivratri, it is advisable to refrain from wearing black attire as it is believed that Lord Shiva is not fond of this color. Opt for other colors that symbolize purity and devotion.
3. Avoid Offering Red Flowers
While offering flowers to Lord Shiva, it is recommended to avoid using red flowers. Shiva is fond of white flowers, so they are considered more appropriate for the worship. However, it is important to note that Ketki and Kevada flowers should be avoided as they are said to be cursed and despised by Lord Shiva.
4. Do Not Use Tulsi Leaves
Tulsi leaves, also known as holy basil, hold great significance in Hindu rituals. However, on Mahashivratri, it is advised to avoid using Tulsi leaves as an offering to Lord Shiva. These leaves are considered sacred to Goddess Laxmi, the wife of Lord Vishnu, and are not meant to be offered to any other deity.
5. Do Not Complete a Full Circle Around the Shiva Lingam
According to the Puranas, it is believed that one should never complete a full circle around the Shiva Lingam. Instead, only a semi-circle should be made, and devotees should return to the starting point. Completing a full circle is considered inauspicious and may bring blame.
6. Do Not Offer Infected Bael Leaves
Bael leaves are considered sacred and are often offered to Lord Shiva. However, it is important to ensure that the leaves are fresh and not infected or insect-eaten when presented as an offering. This signifies the importance of offering pure and untainted items to the deity.
7. Avoid Using Bronze Pots
While offering milk or curd to the Shiva Lingam, it is advisable to use a copper pot instead of a bronze one. According to certain beliefs, using a bronze pot is equivalent to pouring wine, which is not considered appropriate for the worship. It is also suggested to avoid touching the water, milk, or ghee with your nails as it is considered inauspicious.
8. Do Not Offer Saffron or Kumkum
Saffron and kumkum, which are commonly used in Hindu rituals, should not be offered to Lord Shiva. These items are typically used for enhancing beauty, and since Lord Shiva is a recluse who renounced worldly pleasures, they are not suitable offerings for him. Instead, ash (bhasma) is often used to symbolize his ascetic nature.
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Dos for Mahashivratri
1. Begin the Day with a Pure Mind and Body
To start the day right, it is recommended to bathe early in the morning. This ritual not only cleanses the body but also purifies the mind. While it is not mandatory to wear new clothes, it is essential to wear clean attire as a symbol of purity.
2. Observe a Fast
Devotees traditionally observe a fast on Mahashivratri. While some choose to abstain from consuming food and water for the entire day, others may opt for a partial fast where they consume fruits, milk products, and special dishes prepared for the occasion. It is important to remember that fasting is a personal choice, and one should listen to their body's needs while observing the fast.
3. Worship Lord Shiva
On Mahashivratri, devotees have the option to either visit the nearest temple or perform the puja at home if they have a Shiva Lingam. Lord Shiva is believed to be fond of milk and milk products, so it is customary to bathe the Shiva Lingam with milk or curd. Chanting mantras, such as the powerful "Om Namah Shivaya," is also a common practice during the worship.
4. Offer Milk and Fruits
As part of the worship, devotees offer various food items to Lord Shiva. Milk and milk products hold a special place in the offerings, and a wide range of sweets, made from milk, are prepared for the occasion. Fruits are also considered auspicious and can be offered throughout the day.
5. Seek Blessings and Grace
No Mahashivratri celebration is complete without seeking the blessings and grace of Lord Shiva. Devotees offer their prayers and express their gratitude for the guidance and protection provided by Lord Shiva. It is believed that sincere devotion and prayer on this day can lead to the fulfillment of desires and spiritual growth.
Conclusion
Mahashivratri is a time of deep devotion and reverence for Lord Shiva. By understanding and adhering to the dos and don'ts of this auspicious day, devotees can ensure that their worship is performed with utmost respect and sincerity. Remember to approach the day with a pure mind and body, observe the fast if desired, worship Lord Shiva with devotion, and seek his blessings and grace. Avoid the things that are not suitable for offering to Lord Shiva, such as vermilion, black attire, red flowers, infected bael leaves, and saffron or kumkum. By following these guidelines, you can have a spiritually fulfilling Mahashivratri celebration and experience the divine presence of Lord Shiva in your life.