Maha Shivratri 2024: First-time fasting? Here's what you need to know

The auspicious occasion of Maha Shivratri falls on March 8 this year. It falls on the 14th day of the lunar month of Phalguna or Magha and one day before Amavasya (new moon). This day marks the marriage of Lord Shiva with Goddess Parvati and is celebrated as Union Day. So, for Shiva devotees, this is a very special occasion. Devotees often fast on this day and bathe the Shivling with milk, honey and water and offer flowers and beel leaves to the Lord. If this is your first year of fasting and you need help figuring out what to do, this article is for you.

Gaya shared that people fasting on Maha Shivratri should not consume garlic and onion. He also said that people should avoid taking white salt on this day. He also requested devotees not to eat grains like rice, wheat, barley, millet, maize, groundnut, gram, kidney beans and peas. It is important to note that the fast is kept for the whole day.

The Pandit further added that the Maha Shivratri fast can be observed after taking a bath before sunrise and worshiping Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. One should resolve to continue the fast throughout the day. But, if you are sick, experts suggest eating some fruits. Maha Shivratri is celebrated with great fanfare across the country. Besides fasting, devotees meditate, visit Shiva temples, recite mantras and pray to the Lord.

According to religious beliefs, Maha Shivratri is a time to purify the body, mind and soul. Fasting on this day is believed to absolve one of his sins and get God's blessings.

According to religious scriptures, Maha Shivratri is celebrated to celebrate the union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Devi performed penance in her various incarnations to win the affection of Lord Shiva. Impressed by her extreme devotion and diligence, Lord Shiva agreed to marry her. It is also believed that Lord Shiva consumed the halahala poison produced during the churning of the ocean to save the world. As he drank the poison, his throat turned blue and he became known as Nilakantha.