Celebrating Maha Shivratri

Hindus throughout the world are observing one of the most auspicious prayers on their calender, Maha Shivratri, which started yesterday afternoon (March 11) at 2:39 pm and ends at 3:02 pm today (March 12).
Maha Shivratri literally translates as ‘the great night of Shiva’ and according to scriptures, it is on this night that Lord Shiva performs his heavenly dance or ‘tandav’.
The celebration is held on the 13th and 14th day in the month of Phalgun, as per the Hindu calendar. It is a Hindu belief that a devotee who performs sincere worship of Lord Shiva on the auspicious day of Shivaratri, is absolved of sins and attains moksha (emancipation). Lord Shiva is worshipped on Shivratri by offering bilva leaves on the Shiva Lingam. It is common for Hindus to observe a fast during this time. The fasting on Shivratri starts at dawn and continues over the day and night. The fasting must conclude only on the next day during the parana timing as suggested by the Panchang (calendar).
The fasting is doubly beneficial only with night long vigil during Shivratri. The vigil must be accompanied by Shiv Puja either at the home or temple. The strict form of fasting consists of abstaining from food, drinks and water. The milder form of fasting allows consuming milk, water and fruits.
The most important aspect of the fasting is abstaining from bad thoughts, bad company and bad words. The devotee must practice good deeds and keep away from all evil.
Staying at the temple premises, chanting the names of Lord Shiva and listening to the glories of the Lord are the most beneficial activities advised for devotees.
The essence of the fasting and vigil are achieving mastery over senses and learning to control desires. The pure state of mind achieved thus, is diverted towards the Lord, thereby purifying the individual’s body, mind and soul.
The Laudium Sun photographer captured these scenes at the Pretoria Hindu Seva Samaj in Laudium, yesterday afternoon (Thursday 11), with all Covid-19 protocols being observed.