Shivaratri - Traditions, Myths and Legends

Shivaratri, or Mahashivaratri, marks a sacred occasion in the Hindu calendar, paying homage to Lord Shiva, the deity of destruction and transformation within the Hindu trinity. It’s more than just a festival; it’s a profound celebration steeped in tradition and spiritual significance.

 

Shivaratri - Traditions, Myths and Legends

Every year, Shivaratri falls on the 13th or 14th night of the new moon during the Hindu months of Falgun, which aligns with February or March in the Gregorian calendar. The auspicious night known as “the night of Shiva” draws devotees into a deeply spiritual journey.

Throughout the festivals, devotees embark on fasting, prayers, and intricate rituals that extend through the night. It’s a time of deep devotion and connection with the divine, seeking blessings from Lord Shiva for personal growth and transformation.

 

Shivaratri is more than just a festival; it's a deeply spiritual journey for the devotees of Lord Shiva. Legend has it that on this night, Lord Shiva wed Goddess Parvati, symbolizing the victory of good over evil. Shivaratri is a reminder of the eternal battle between light and darkness, highlighting the triumph of goodness. It brings devotees together on a shared path towards spiritual enlightenment and divine blessings. 

 

These myths and legends behind Shivaratri will help in understanding the significance of the festival and the importance of Lord Shiva in Hinduism.

  1. The birth of Lord Shiva:

One myth suggests that Shivaratri marks the birth anniversary of Lord Shiva. According to Hindu Scriptures, Lord Shiva was born on this day, making it an auspicious occasion to celebrate and seek his blessings.

  1. The Marriage of Shiva and Parvati: 

One such legend is the divine marriage of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. It’s believed that on this very day, Lord Shiva accepted Parvati as his consort, and devotees honor this celestial union through prayers and rituals.

  1. Victory over evil:

Another tale speaks of Lord Shiva’s triumph over the demon “Tripurasura”. This formidable demon built three cities of immense wealth, but Lord Shiva, in his cosmic of a blazing column fire, aided the gods in vanquishing Tripurasura. This victory is commemorated on Shivaratri.

  1. The Salvation of Markandeya:

Markandeya, a young boy, was a staunch devotee of Lord Shiva. When the time of his death arrived, he sought refuge in a Shiva Linga. Impressed by his devotion, Lord Shiva granted him immorality. This story highlights the power of devotion and significance of Shivaratri as a day to seek Lord Shiva’s blessings.

 

Common activities and rituals done on this day:

  1. Fasting (vrat/barta): Many devotees observe a strict fasting on Shivaratri, abstaining from food and water until the next day. Some may consume fruits, milk products, or a single meal.
  2. Puja and Arati: Devotees visit Shiva temple early in the morning to offer prayers, perform puja, and participate in special aarti ceremonies. In Nepal, people from different regions either from Nepal or India or anywhere, gather in Pashupatinath Temple from the day before Shivaratri in order to see the Aarati and get the blessings of Pashupatinath, ultimately the blessings of Lord Shiva. 
  3. Rudrabishek: It is a Vedic Hindu ritual performed to appease Lord Shiva. It’s a way to worship him in his fierce aspect known as Rudra.
  • Rudra- One of Lord Shiva’s ferocious forms, associated with power and destruction.
  • Abhishek- Literally means “to bathe” and refers to the offerings of sacred items to a murti during puja.
  1. Chanting: A core part of ritual involves chanting “Sri Rudram” a hymn that contains 108 names of Lord Shiva. Each name signifies a different attribute or aspect of the deity. 

 

(Crowd in Pashupatinath on Shivaratri)

Source: Spotlight Nepal

  1. Sandhya Aarati: During Sandhya Aarati, devotees gather in the temple or sacred space, and the priest or officiant leads the ceremony. They light a lamp or camphor, usually on a tray or plate, and wave it in a circular motion before the offering of light, which represents the dispelling of darkness and ignorance, as well as the illumination of divine grace and knowledge.


 

What’s fun about Shivaratri?

In Shivaratri, in some places, particularly Pashupatinath, some people smoke chillum (a pipe) as a symbolic offering to Lord Shiva. It’s important to note that this is not a mainstream practice and smoking marijuana is illegal in Nepal. 

(Sadhu smoking chillum in Pashupatinath on Shivaratri)

Source: Sangesh Shrestha

 

The tradition of blocking people’s way : 

In Nepal, during Shivaratri, there is a tradition of blocking people’s way with a rope and it is known as “ Dhunwa Chhedne '' or “Rope Blocking”. This practice holds a cultural significance and is deeply rooted in mythology. 

 

According to local beliefs, during Shivaratri, Lord Shiva descends to earth to bless devotees. It is said that he wanders around, disguised as a beggar, to test the devotion and generosity of his devotees. In order to identify genuine devotees, Lord Shiva’s devotees, often children, block the paths of passerby with ropes. Those who are willing to patiently wait or often alms to the children are considered to have passed the test of devotion. 

 

( Children blocking and getting money from the Nepal Police on the day of Shivaratri)

Source: Routine of Nepal Banda

(A picture showing the activities of celebration of Shivaratri: Road Blocking, Worships, Sitting around fire)

Source: The Himalayan Times

 

This tradition is believed to have originated centuries ago, influenced by the rich Hindu mythology surrounding Shivaratri. Over time, it has become an integral part of Shivaratri celebrations in Nepal, especially in the towns and cities with a strong Hindu presence.

 

Sitting around fire:

Sitting around fire during Shivaratri holds deep symbolic significance rooted in Hindu mythology and spiritual beliefs.

Fire is considered sacred in Hinduism and is often associated with purification and transformation. Lord Shiva is depicted as having a close connection to fire, as symbolized by his fiery third eye and his role as a destroyer and transformer. Sitting around fire during Shivaratri is believed to involve the presence and blessings of Lord Shiva.

It’s seen as a way to cleanse oneself of impurities and negative energies, paving the way for spiritual growth and enlightenment.

Sitting around fire during Shivaratri is seen as a metaphorical journey from darkness to light, symbolizing the pursuit of spiritual awakening and the dispelling of ignorance.

 

 

( sitting around fire in Shivaratri)

Source: Nabin Baral

 

Where is Shivaratri celebrated in Nepal

  • Pashupatinath Temple, Kathmandu
  • Muktinath Temple, Mustang
  • Guhyeshwari Temple, Kathmandu
  • Kailashnath Mahadev Statue, Sanga
  • Tudikhel, Kathmandu

 

About the crowd during Shivaratri

During Shivaratri, Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu experiences an overwhelming influx of devotees and visitors. The temple becomes extremely crowded, with thousands of people converging to participate in the festivities and pay homage to Lord Shiva.

The crowd size varies each year, but it’s not uncommon for tens of thousands of devotees to gather at Pashupatinath temple during Shivaratri. 

 

The crowd can indeed pose certain risks due to the sheer volume of people gathered in a relatively confined space. Let’s know about safety.

  • Be mindful of your surroundings and stay alert all the time.
  • Keep an eye on your belongings to prevent theft or loss amidst the bursting crowd.
  • Try avoiding congested areas with heavy foot traffic, as these can be more prone to accidents or stampedes. 
  • Stay hydrated, especially if you’re spending long hours in the crowd.
  • If you’re attending the festival with friends or family, establish a designated meeting point in case you get separated in the crowd.
  • Pay attention to any instructions or announcements from authorities or temple staff.
  • If you feel uncomfortable or unsafe in any situation, trust your instincts and seek assistance from authorities or temple staff. 

Your safety comes first!

 

Guide to Pashupatinath

  • Pashupatinath is located on the banks of Bagmati River in the eastern part of Kathmandu. It’s easily accessible from various parts of the city by taxi, bus or private vehicles.
  • The temple is open to visitors from early morning to late evening. The best time to visit would be the mornings because of less crowds.
  • It’s important to dress modestly and respectfully. Avoid revealing clothing. You may also be required to remove your shoes before entering certain areas of the temple.
  • There is an entry fee for foreigners. Be prepared to pay this fee upon the arrival at the temple complex.


 

Ultimately, Shivaratri reminds us of light within, guiding us through life’s ups and downs towards spiritual growth. As Shivaratri ends, may Lord Shiva’s blessings keep us inspired until we celebrate again.