Maha Shivaratri

There are several legends which are associated with Shivaratri. Few of the popular beliefs behind observing Maha Shivaratri are - It is believed that during the creation of the universe, Lord Shiva was incarnated as Lord Rudra during the midnight of Maha Shivaratri with the grace of Lord Brahma . It is believed that Lord Shiva got married to Goddess Parvati on the very same day. The festival is observed as the convergence of Shiva and Shakti. Hence, for many Shiva devotees, Shivaratri is observed as the marriage anniversary of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. As per Hinduism, the creation and the destruction of the universe is a cyclic process. When the time comes, Lord Shiva destroys the whole creation with the fire of His third eye while performing the cosmic dance known as Tandava . It is believed that it is the day of Maha Shivaratri when Lord Shiva does the Tandava. Hence, Maha Shivaratri marks the anniversary of cosmic dance performed by Lord Shiva. It is believed that during the churning of the great ocean the poison also came out of the sea. It had the power to destroy the whole creation. Lord Shiva drank the poison and saved the whole world from annihilation. Hence, Maha Shivaratri is observed as the thanksgiving to Lord Shiva. The day of Maha Shivaratri is considered the most favorite day of Lord Shiva. Hence devotees worship Lord Shiva and observe a day and night long fast to please and to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva on His favorite day.

the day and night long fasting worshipping Shiva Lingam Abhishekam i.e. bathing the Shiva Lingam with water, milk and honey offering Bel Patra i.e. wood-apple leaves to Shiva Lingam offering white flowers to Shiva Lingam night long vigil while chanting Shiva Mantra and Stotram

Lord Shiva is the main deity of Maha Shivaratri. Lord Shiva in the form of Lingam is worshipped on the auspicious day of Maha Shivaratri.