Maha Shivaratri is in February 2023. Maha Shivaratri marks the celebration of Lord Bholenath (Lord Shiv). It is believed that Lord Shiva and Mother Parvati were married on this day coincidentally, Bholenath appeared for the first time in the form of 12 Jyotirlingas. On this day, temples are decorated, and bhajan & kirtans are carried out. However, this time, Shani Pradosh coincides with Maha Shivaratri, which is said to be very auspicious. On this day, if Lord Bholenath is worshipped, then Lord Shiva will be happy and keep his blessings for the whole year.On Maha Shivaratri, you should conduct preparations to perform the Abhishek of Shiva at home. First, bathe the Shivling with Ganges water. After this, chant the name of Bholenath with sugarcane juice. After this, put oil or water on the Shivling with milk, curd, and honey.On worshipping Shivling with curd, the person gets happiness, wealth, family happiness, and prosperity. On the other hand, Lakshmi resides permanently in the house after anointing with sugarcane juice. If you want to win over your enemies, offer mustard oil on Shivling. On the other hand, if you wish for happiness and wealth, offer scented oil on Shivling. If you desire peace and prosperity, cows milk should be offered on Shivling on the day of Maha Shivratri. If someone in the house is ill for a long time, Shivling should be anointed with buttermilk. After this, apply sandalwood paste on the Shivling and offer betel leaves, supari, betel leaf, datura, hemp seeds (if possible), plum, etc.However, while doing Abhishek, keep reciting Shiv Chalisa. If you do not remember the Chalisa, keep chanting the mantra “Om Namah Shivay.”One can also chant Mahamrityunjaya while sitting with family members. People can also observe fast and eat Falahari Vrat only after Shiva Aarti in the evening. Reciting Sunderkand and reciting Hanuman Chalisa are also said to be very important on this day. Hanuman ji is called the Rudravatar of Shiva. Therefore the worship of Hanuman ji on Maha Shivratri is also fruitful.
