Shiva ‘The Auspicious One’, also known as Mahadeva ‘The Great God’, is one of the principal deities of Hinduism. He is the Supreme Being in Shaivism, one of the major traditions within Hinduism.
Shiva is known as The Destroyer within the Trimurti, the Hindu trinity which also includes Brahma and Vishnu. In the Shaivite tradition, Shiva is the Supreme Lord who creates, protects and transforms the universe. In the goddess-oriented Shakta tradition, the Supreme Goddess (Devi) is regarded as the energy and creative power (Shakti) and the equal complementary partner of Shiva. Shiva is one of the five equivalent deities in Panchayatana puja of the Smarta tradition of Hinduism.
Shiva has many aspects, benevolent as well as fearsome. In benevolent aspects, he is depicted as an omniscient Yogi who lives an ascetic life on Mount Kailash as well as a householder with his wife Parvati and his two children, Ganesha and Kartikeya. In his fierce aspects, he is often depicted slaying demons. Shiva is also known as Adiyogi (the first Yogi), regarded as the patron god of yoga, meditation and the arts.
Shri Trimbakeshwar Shiv Jyotirlinga Mandir
The Shri Trimbakeshwar Shiva Temple is an ancient Hindu temple in the town of Trimbak, in the Trimbakeshwar tehsill in the Nashik District of Maharashtra, India, 28 km from the city of Nashik and 40 km from Nashik road. It is dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva and is one of the twelve jyotirlingas where the Hindu genealogy registers at Trimbakeshwar, Maharashtra are kept. The origin of the sacred Godavari river is near Trimbak.
Mahashivratri 2025: A Celebration of Devotion, Spiritual Awakening, and Divine Blessings
Mahashivratri, observed on February 26th, 2025 (Wednesday), is one of the most significant festivals in the Hindu calendar. Celebrated in honor of Lord Shiva, this auspicious night marks a time for deep reflection, prayer, and devotion. The word “Shivratri” translates to “the night of Shiva,” and devotees around the world gather to fast, meditate, and seek spiritual enlightenment.
Mahashivratri is more than just a night of ritual—it symbolizes the victory of light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance. It’s believed that on this day, Lord Shiva performed the cosmic dance of creation, preservation, and destruction. Devotees believe that observing this sacred night helps purify the mind, body, and soul, leading to inner peace and divine blessings.
Throughout the night, temples are adorned with flowers and lights, and devotees chant mantras, offer prayers, and perform the Shiva Abhishekam. The night is spent in worship, with many choosing to stay awake, honoring Lord Shiva through prayers and spiritual practices.
Nishita Kaal Puja Time – 12:09 AM to 12:59 AM, Feb 27
Ratri First Prahar Puja Time – 06:19 PM to 09:26 PM
Ratri Second Prahar Puja Time – 09:26 PM to 12:34 AM, Feb 27
Ratri Third Prahar Puja Time – 12:34 AM to 03:41 AM, Feb 27
Ratri Fourth Prahar Puja Time – 03:41 AM to 06:48 AM, Feb 27
Chaturdashi Tithi Begins – 11:08 AM on Feb 26, 2025
Chaturdashi Tithi Ends – 08:54 AM on Feb 27, 2025
Vrat Vidhi for Mahashivratri
On the day before Shivaratri, typically observed on Trayodashi, devotees should have only one meal. On Shivaratri day, after completing the morning rituals, devotees should take a Sankalp (resolution) to observe the full-day fast, with the intention to break it the following day. During this Sankalp, they pledge to maintain self-discipline throughout the fast, seeking Lord Shiva’s blessings for strength and devotion to complete the fast without any hindrance. Hindu fasting practices require a strong commitment, and this pledge ensures that the devotee is spiritually prepared to observe the fast.
On Shivaratri, devotees should take a second bath in the evening before performing Shiva Puja or visiting a temple. The puja is traditionally conducted during the night. Devotees are advised to break their fast the following day, after taking a bath. Ideally, the fast should be broken between sunrise and before the conclusion of Chaturdashi Tithi to gain the maximum benefit of the Vrat.
There is a differing opinion where some believe the fast should only be broken after Chaturdashi Tithi ends, but most traditions suggest both the Shiva Puja and Parana (breaking of the fast) should be done within Chaturdashi Tithi.
The Shiva Puja on Shivaratri can be performed once or repeated four times during the night. The night is divided into four Prahar (periods), and devout followers often choose to perform the puja during each of these periods.
On this special occasion, let us come together in reverence and devotion, invoking the blessings of Mahadev for prosperity, peace, and spiritual growth.
