Maha Shivratri 2025: What to Do & What to Avoid
On February 26, 2025, one of the most important Hindu holidays, Maha Shivratri, will be observed. In order to obtain the blessings of Lord Shiva, followers of this holy night fast, do pujas, and repeat prayers.
To make the most of this auspicious event, it’s crucial to know the dos and don’ts if you intend to celebrate Maha Shivratri.
Activities for Maha Shivratri in 2025
- Pay attention to fasting
One important aspect of Maha Shivratri is fasting. Fruits, nuts, and dairy products are examples of light, sattvic foods that devotees eat instead of grains. This keeps commitment and purity intact.
- Go to a temple dedicated to Shiva
Offering prayers at a Shiva temple is seen as extremely auspicious. You can use milk, water, honey, and bel leaves to perform the Shiva Lingam’s Abhishek, or ritual bathing.
- Say the phrase “Om Namah Shivaya.”
“Om Namah Shivaya,” the mantra of Lord Shiva, promotes spiritual development and tranquilly. It can be chanted during meditation or all day long.
- Jagran, “Stay Awake All Night”
In order to get Lord Shiva’s blessings, many devotees keep Jagran, or night-long vigil, by meditating and chanting bhajans. Remaining awake represents conquering ignorance and darkness.
- Go to a temple dedicated to Shiva
Offering prayers at a Shiva temple is seen as extremely auspicious. Wat5 and milk can be used for the Shiva Lingam’s Abhishek, or ceremonial bathing. Execute the Rudra Abhishek.
The Rudra Abhishek, in which devotees present holy objects to the Shiva Lingam while reciting Vedic mantras, is one of the most potent ceremonies performed on Maha Shivratri.
- Do yoga and meditation
Shiva is said to as the first yogi, or Adi Yogi. On this day, engaging in yoga and meditation promotes spiritual awareness and inner development.
Things Not to Do in 2025 During Maha Shivratri
Steer clear of alcohol and non-vegetarian food.
The day of Maha Shivratri is one of dedication and cleanliness. It is completely forbidden to use alcohol, tobacco, or non-vegetarian food.
- Avoid sleeping at night.
The spiritual blessings of the vrat (fast) may be diminished, according to devotees, if they sleep on the night of Maha Shivratri. Rather, practise Shiva katha, meditation, or bhajans.
- Avoid Adopting Negative Attitudes and Behaviours
Seeking inner calm and the blessings of Shiva is the focus of Maha Shivratri. To keep your mind and heart clean, stay away from negative thoughts, anger, greed, and dishonesty.
- Avoid Eating Garlic & Onions
Garlic and onions are thought to increase the body’s tamas, or gloom. On this day, it is preferable to eat a sattvic (pure) diet.
- Don’t cut your hair or nails.
According to Hindu customs, it is unlucky to cut your hair or nails on Maha Shivratri. On this holy day, it is advisable to stay away from these activities.
- Show Lord Shiva no disrespect.
When you pray, be mindful. Since they are not seen as appropriate offerings, never place turmeric, coconut water, or tulsi leaves on the Shiva Lingam.
Concluding remarks
Maha Shivratri is a time for self-control, fasting, and devotion. You can enjoy the holiday in a way that is in line with spiritual traditions and infuses your life with positive energy by adhering to these dos and don’ts. May you be blessed with joy, tranquilly, and wealth by Lord Shiva!
Mahadev, har har!