Maha Shivaratri Vratam: Fasting and Observances

Maha Shivaratri Vratam (fasting and observances) is a significant Hindu ritual dedicated to Lord Shiva, observed with deep devotion and spiritual practices. Observing the Maha Shivaratri Vratam involves fasting (Upavasam), prayers, Jagaran (staying awake through the night), and specific rituals to honor Lord Shiva. Below are the detailed steps on how to perform Maha Shivaratri Vratam properly:

Preparations Before Maha Shivaratri

Choose the Form of Vratam (Fasting):

• Nirjala Upavasam – Fasting without consuming any food or water (most stringent form).
• Phalahar Upavasam – Fasting where only fruits, water, and milk are consumed.
• Partial Fasting – Light food like fruits, water, and non-grain items like sabudana (tapioca) can be consumed, avoiding heavy meals.

Spiritual Preparation:

• Prepare mentally and spiritually by dedicating yourself to Lord Shiva.
• Stay away from negative thoughts and maintain a peaceful and focused mind.
• Clean your home and the place of worship (puja room) to create a serene environment for the rituals.

Items Needed for Puja (Worship):

• Shiv Lingam or a picture of Lord Shiva for worship.
• Panchamrit (a mixture of milk, curd, honey, ghee, and sugar) for Abhishekam (ritual bathing of the Shiv Lingam).
• Bilva (Bael) leaves, flowers, fruits, incense sticks, oil lamps, and fresh water.
• Mantra Books or printed versions of Shiva mantras like Om Namah Shivaya and Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra for chanting.
• A Rudraksha mala for chanting mantras.

How to Perform Maha Shivaratri Vratam

Step 1: Early Morning Rituals

Wake Up Early and Take a Bath:

• Wake up before sunrise and take a holy bath to cleanse yourself physically and mentally.
• Wear fresh, clean clothes (preferably white or light-colored for purity).

Offer Prayer to Lord Shiva:

• Visit a Shiva temple or worship the Shiv Lingam at home.
• Perform Abhishekam using milk, water, honey, curd, ghee, sugar, and rose water.
• Offer Bilva leaves, flowers, and fruits while chanting “Om Namah Shivaya”.
• Light an oil lamp (diya) and incense sticks.

Resolve (Sankalpam):

• Sit before the Shiv Lingam or Lord Shiva’s image and mentally resolve to observe the fast with devotion and sincerity.
• Offer a prayer seeking Lord Shiva’s blessings, protection, and guidance.

Step 2: Daytime Observances

Observe Fasting (Upavasam):

• Start your fast after performing the morning rituals.
• Observe Nirjala Upavasam (no food/water) or Phalahar Upavasam (only fruits and milk).
• Avoid grains, onion, garlic, and tamasic (impure) foods.
• Stay focused on spiritual activities, avoiding distractions.

Chanting and Mantras:

• Chant “Om Namah Shivaya” as many times as possible throughout the day using a Rudraksha mala.
• Recite Shiva Stotras like Shiva Chalisa, Rudrashtakam, and Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra.
• Meditate on Lord Shiva’s form and attributes for spiritual growth.

Temple Visit (Optional):

• If possible, visit a Shiva temple and participate in rituals.
• Offer milk, water, and Bilva leaves to the temple’s Shiv Lingam.

Step 3: Evening Puja (Pre-Jagaran)

Second Abhishekam and Puja:

• Perform another Abhishekam to the Shiv Lingam in the evening.
• Use milk, water, honey, and Bilva leaves.
• Light an oil lamp and offer fresh flowers, fruits, and sandalwood paste.
• Chant “Om Namah Shivaya” and meditate on Lord Shiva’s divine qualities.

Prepare for Jagaran (Night Vigil):

• Jagaran (staying awake) is a crucial part of Maha Shivaratri Vratam.
• It symbolizes spiritual awareness and the destruction of ignorance.
• Engage in chanting Shiva mantras, listening to bhajans, and reading scriptures like the Shiva Purana.

Step 4: Jagaran (All-Night Vigil)

Stay Awake and Spiritually Active:

• Engage in continuous spiritual practices such as chanting, meditation, and devotional songs dedicated to Lord Shiva.
• Stay focused on Lord Shiva’s divine form and qualities.

Midnight Puja (Most Auspicious Time):

• Midnight is the most auspicious time for Shiva worship.
• Perform another Abhishekam with Panchamrit and sacred substances.
• Chant Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra and Om Namah Shivaya with full devotion.
• Visualize Lord Shiva’s blessings and divine grace.

Step 5: Concluding the Vratam on the Next Day

Morning Puja and Breaking the Fast:

• The next morning, perform the final Abhishekam and puja.
• Offer fresh Bilva leaves, fruits, and flowers.
• Conclude the Vratam with gratitude to Lord Shiva.
• Break the fast with light food like fruits, milk, or a simple vegetarian meal.

Acts of Charity:

• Perform acts of charity by donating food, clothes, or money to the needy.
• Supporting Shiva temples is also considered auspicious.

Reflection and Meditation:

• Spend time reflecting on the spiritual benefits of the Vratam.
• Incorporate Shiva’s qualities—detachment, humility, compassion, and forgiveness—into daily life.

Conclusion

Observing Maha Shivaratri Vratam with sincerity and devotion purifies the mind, body, and soul. It offers an opportunity for spiritual growth, inner transformation, and divine blessings. By fasting, chanting mantras, performing pujas, and staying awake, devotees align themselves with Lord Shiva’s cosmic energies, leading to peace, prosperity, and enlightenment.

Om Namah Shivaya!