Shivaratri
TamilAlso known as: Maha Shivaratri, Shiva's Great Night
Shivaratri
About Shivaratri
Shivaratri, the 'Great Night of Shiva', is one of the most important Hindu festivals celebrated across Tamil Nadu. It falls on the 13th or 14th day of the dark fortnight in Masi (February-March).
Devotees observe strict fasting, perform night-long vigils, and offer special prayers to Lord Shiva. Temples are decorated and Abhishekam is performed throughout the day.
The festival commemorates the divine marriage of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, and also the night when Lord Shiva performed the Tandava cosmic dance.
Vrat Vidhi & Fasting Rules
Devotees observe strict fasting, consuming only water or fruits, and maintain a night-long vigil.
Om Namah Shivaya, I seek the blessings of Lord Shiva for the destruction of negative karma and the attainment of spiritual liberation.
- Wake up before dawn and take a ritual bath.
- Observe strict fasting — only water, fruits, and milk are permitted.
- Visit Shiva temples and offer bilva leaves, water, and milk to the lingam.
- Stay awake through the night, chanting Om Namah Shivaya.
Puja Samagri & Ritual Steps
- Clean the puja area and prepare offerings for Lord Shiva.
- Offer bilva leaves, water, milk, and flowers to the Shiva lingam.
- Perform Abhishekam with sacred substances.
- Chant Om Namah Shivaya and perform aarti.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The night-long vigil symbolises the devotion of Lord Shiva's followers and the overcoming of darkness and ignorance through spiritual awareness.
Note: All timings are represented in 24-hour notation in local time of the selected location with DST adjustment (if applicable).
Hours which are past midnight are suffixed with next day date. In Panchang, a day starts and ends with local sunrise.
Recommended Pages
Comprehensive annual Hindu calendar with tithis and festivals.
Detailed month-wise view of lunar tithis and celestial events.
Marathi Panchang and festive dates for the year.
Gujarati Vikram Samvat calendar and festivals.
Telugu calendar and festive Panchangam details.
Tamil solar calendar dates and monthly Panchangam.