Maha Shivaratri is one of the most sacred and famous Hindu festivals celebrated in honour of Lord Shiva. Shivratri celebrates the grace of Lord Shiva, who is also known as Adi Guru or the first Guru. Maha Shivaratri is celebrated in February or March or the Hindu month of Phalguna on the 13th night and 14th day of Krishna Paksha.
In north India, Maha Shivratri is considered to fall in Maagha Mass, whereas in South India, it is celebrated as “the Great Night of Shiva” before the arrival of summer. This festival reminds people about “overcoming darkness and ignorance” around the world and life. On the day of Maha Shivaratri, devotees observe fast, chant prayers, remember lord shiva with meditation, and many more rituals. People also visit Shiva Temples and a renowned pilgrimage called Jyotirlingams on Maha Shivratri. In 2023, Maha Shivaratri will be celebrated on 18 February, Saturday. As always, this festival will be celebrated in India and Nepal.
When is Maha Shivaratri 2023 as per Tamil Calendar?
In 2023, as usual, Maha Shivratri falls on Chaturdashi Tithi of Krishna Paksha, which, according to the calendar, is on 18 February 2023.
Maha Shivaratri 2023 Time
Chaturdashi Tithi Begins: 6:25 PM on 18 February 2023
Chaturdashi Tithi Ends: 4:30 PM on 19 February 2023
Significance of Maha Shivaratri 2023
What to eat in Maha Shivaratri fasting?
While some people observe complete fasting on the Maha Shivratri day, others eat food used in fasting because of health or other problems. If you observe Fast on Maha Shivratri, you can eat Rotis, Halwa or some other dishes made of Water Chestnut (Singhade) flour. Dishes made with Sabudana like kheer, khichdi, etc., along with potato dishes. Also, one can include all fruits during the fast.
Is Maha Shivratri a gazetted holiday?
Yes, in 2023, Maha Shivratri is a gazetted holiday, which means banks, schools, and many organizations will observe a holiday on 18 February 2023.
Can we drink water in Maha Shivratri fast?
It is not a compulsory rule that we cannot drink water while observing Maha Shivratri Fast, yet many devotees observe fast all day and night without water.
Auspicious Days in 2023
Muhurtham Dates in 2023
Amavasai 2023
Pournami 2023
Chathurthi 2023
Sashti Viradham 2023
Sankatahara Chathurthi 2023
Pradosham 2023