As the name suggests the deity worshipped during Shivaratri is Lord Shiva. The appeal of Shiva, worshipped in the form of Linga has been strong and persistent among all sections of society. Unlike most of the festivals celebrated during day, Shivaratri is special in the night because Shiva saved the universe from darkness and ignorance.

The 14th day of every month - Krishna Chaturdasi - is called Shivaratri, but theone in the month of Magha is called Maha Shivaratri. It being the greatest of them all. On this day, Lord Shiva drank the great poison to save the universe, marriedGoddess Parvathi and performed Siva Tandava Nritya.

The themes of this festival are ahimsa, satya, compassion and forgiveness. By following these, one should worship Lord Shiva with fasting and Jagarana (keeping awake at night). Fasting should be observed from sunrise to sunrise. On this day, Linga is bathed with panchamruta (mixture of milk, curd, ghee, sugar and honey) and worshipped with Vedic hymns, bael leaves (bhila patre) and flowers.

The next morning - Magha KrishnaChaturdasi (Feb 17) - people perform Rudra Homa in temples and houses. Naivedhyam is also offered to the Lord. Worshipping Lord Shiva could take one to peace and prosperity. On this day, the Lord forgives all sins committed by his devotees. Worship and pray Lord Shiva with devotion and faith, he blesses people for mukti (liberalization) and prosperity.

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