Each month there is a day known as Sivaratri and once a year there is Mahashivaratri (maha=great) ... i.e. the Great Festival of Shiva. The dates of these occasions correspond to certain phases of the new moon when it is believed that the mind (which is adversely affected by the power of the moon) is less susceptible to low, animalistic forces and thus more tractable to the power of meditation and prayer.
It is for this reason that Mahashivaratri is believed to be the one 24-hour period in the year which is of the greatest benefit. It has been stated in the scriptures that if a man fasts, stays awake and meditates for the whole of Mahashivaratri, it will give him his best chance to achieve mastery of the mind and attain liberation.
Mahashivaratri always falls on the fourteenth day of the dark fortnight of Phalguna (February-March), and is dedicated to the worship of Lord Shiva. (Mahashivaratri in 2021 falls on Thursday March 11). On this day it is recommended that devotees sing Shiva bhajans, recite verses from scripture, offer prayers in the morning and evening, and observe fasting throughout the day and visit Temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. In the case of Arunachala, premier Shiva site of South India, circumambulation of Arunachala Hill is observed by many.
To read more about the significance of this grand Festival please visit my website at this link here
Please enjoy the below rousing audio "Mahadev" by Armonian entitled "Mahashivratri".
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