Shiva Puja on Shivaratri is one of the most important and spiritually significant rituals in the Hindu tradition. Shivaratri (meaning “the night of Shiva”) is a day devoted to the worship of Lord Shiva, the destroyer of evil and the transformer of the universe. This auspicious day falls on the 14th night of the new moon during the month of Phalguna (February–March) according to the Hindu lunar calendar. It is believed that on this night, Lord Shiva performed the Tandava, a cosmic dance, and it marks the divine marriage between Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.

The Shiva Puja performed during Shivaratri is a powerful form of worship that seeks Lord Shiva’s blessings for health, prosperity, wisdom, and spiritual liberation. Devotees observe a night-long vigil and fasting while offering prayers and chanting mantras to seek Shiva’s divine grace.

The ritual of Shiva Puja typically begins with the purification of the worship area and the installation of a Shiva Lingam, the sacred symbol of Lord Shiva. The Lingam is bathed with milk, honey, water, and ghee, followed by the offering of bilva leaves (considered very auspicious to Lord Shiva), flowers, incense, and lights. Devotees light diyas (oil lamps) to symbolize the dispelling of darkness and the illumination of the soul.

The chanting of sacred mantras, especially the Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra, Om Namah Shivaya, and the Rudram (a prayer dedicated to Lord Shiva) are integral to the puja. These mantras are repeated throughout the night, with devotees maintaining a solemn atmosphere.

Fasting, meditation, and devotion on Shivaratri are believed to cleanse the mind and soul, leading to spiritual awakening and moksha (liberation from the cycle of birth and death). Observing this night with full devotion and sincerity is said to grant the devotee the divine blessings of Lord Shiva.