Mahashivratri, a significant Hindu festival honoring Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, is around the corner, slated for March 8th, Friday. This auspicious occasion falls on the Chaturdashi Tithi of Krishna Paksha in the Phalgun month of the Hindu calendar. As devotees gear up to celebrate this sacred event, let's delve into the details of the festivities.

Date and Timing:
Mark your calendars for Mahashivratri on March 8th, 2024. The Chaturdashi Tithi commences at 09:57 PM on March 8th and concludes at 06:17 PM on March 9th. Nishita Kaal Puja, considered highly auspicious, falls between 2:07 AM to 12:56 AM on March 9th. Additionally, the Shivaratri Parana time spans from 06:37 AM to 03:29 AM, allowing devotees to conclude their fasts.

Rituals and Observances:
Mahashivratri holds profound significance in Hindu mythology, symbolizing the divine union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Legend has it that on this night, Lord Shiva and Parvati united in holy matrimony, signifying the convergence of consciousness (Purusha) and energy (Prakriti), essential for creation. To honor this union, devotees engage in various rituals, including fasting, prayers, and offerings to Lord Shiva.

Fasting Rules:
Fasting during Mahashivratri is customary among devotees, believed to bestow blessings and cleanse the soul. While some opt for a complete fast, abstaining from food and water, others choose to consume fruits and milk. Devotees refrain from consuming grains and non-vegetarian food items during this period, focusing on spiritual purification and devotion.

Offerings to Lord Shiva:
Devotees offer various items to Lord Shiva as part of their worship. These offerings include Bilva leaves, milk, honey, curd, ghee, fruits, and flowers, symbolizing purity, devotion, and reverence. Lighting incense sticks and diyas (lamps) is also customary, creating an atmosphere of spiritual fervor and devotion.

Celebrations Across India:
Mahashivratri is celebrated with great fervor across India, with devotees thronging to temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. Elaborate decorations adorn the temples, and special prayers and rituals are conducted throughout the day and night. Devotional songs (bhajans) and chants reverberate in the air, creating an atmosphere of piety and devotion.

Significance of Mahashivratri:
Mahashivratri holds immense significance in Hinduism, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil and the power of devotion. It is believed that observing Mahashivratri with sincerity and devotion can absolve one of past sins and pave the way for spiritual liberation. The festival also underscores the importance of balance and harmony between masculine and feminine energies, as represented by Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.

As Mahashivratri nears, devotees eagerly anticipate the opportunity to immerse themselves in devotion and seek the blessings of Lord Shiva. Through fasting, prayers, and offerings, they express their reverence and gratitude towards the Supreme Being. May this Mahashivratri be a time of spiritual awakening and enlightenment for all devotees, ushering in peace, prosperity, and divine grace.

The auspicious days beginning with Mahashivratri for these zodiac signs are