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Maha Shivratri 2025: A Sacred Festival of Lord Shiv
Maha Shivratri is one of the most sacred Hindu festivals dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is observed annually on the fourteenth day of the waning moon in the month of Phalguna. Devotees across the world engage in spiritual practices, night-long vigils, and sacred offerings to seek divine blessings.

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Date and Puja Timings for Maha Shivratri 2025

Maha Shivratri in 2025 falls on Wednesday, February 26. The key timings for the rituals are as follows:

• Nishita Kaal Puja Time – 12:09 AM to 12:59 AM (Feb 27)
• Duration – 50 minutes
• Shivaratri Parana Time (Breaking the Fast) – 06:48 AM to 08:54 AM (Feb 27)
• Ratri First Prahar Puja Time – 06:19 PM to 09:26 PM
• Ratri Second Prahar Puja Time – 09:26 PM to 12:34 AM (Feb 27)
• Ratri Third Prahar Puja Time – 12:34 AM to 03:41 AM (Feb 27)
• Ratri Fourth Prahar Puja Time – 03:41 AM to 06:48 AM (Feb 27)
• Chaturdashi Tithi Begins – 11:08 AM on Feb 26, 2025
• Chaturdashi Tithi Ends – 08:54 AM on Feb 27, 2025

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The Significance of Maha Shivratri

Maha Shivratri holds deep spiritual significance in Hindu culture. It is believed that on this night, Lord Shiva performed the Tandava Nritya (cosmic dance), symbolizing creation, preservation, and destruction. Devotees observe this day to seek blessings for emancipation (moksha) and to overcome ignorance and negativity.

The festival also signifies the union of Shiva and Shakti, representing the balance of masculine and feminine energies in the universe. For many, Maha Shivratri is a time for soul-searching, introspection, and spiritual awakening.

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Rituals and Traditions of Maha Shivratri

1. Fasting (Vrat):
   Devotees observe a strict fast, abstaining from food and water. Some consume fruits and milk, while others refrain from eating until the next day. Fasting is believed to purify the mind and body.
2. Night-long Vigil (Jagran):
   Staying awake throughout the night and chanting “Om Namah Shivaya” is a common practice. Devotees sing bhajans, recite Shiva mantras, and meditate to honor Lord Shiva.
3. Abhishekam:
   The ritual of bathing the Shiva Lingam with milk, honey, water, curd, and ghee is performed. This act symbolizes purification and devotion.
4. Offering Bilva (Bael) Leaves:
   Bilva (bael) leaves are considered sacred to Lord Shiva. Offering these leaves during prayers is believed to please him and bring prosperity.
5. Visiting Shiva Temples:
   Devotees visit Shiva temples to offer prayers and seek blessings. Major temples like Kashi Vishwanath, Somnath, and Amarnath witness massive gatherings.

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The Significance of Donation on Maha Shivratri

Donation, or Daan, holds a special place in Hindu culture, especially during festivals like Maha Shivratri. It is believed that acts of charity on this auspicious day can bring immense blessings and spiritual merit. Here’s why donation is significant:

1. Pleasing Lord Shiva:
   Lord Shiva is known as Bholenath, the compassionate one. Donating to the needy or supporting charitable causes is considered a way to seek his blessings.
2. Purification of Karma:
   Donating during Maha Shivratri is believed to purify one’s karma and remove past sins. It is an act of selflessness that aligns with the spiritual essence of the festival.
3. Supporting the Needy:
   Donating food, clothes, or money to the underprivileged reflects the values of compassion and empathy, which are central to Lord Shiva’s teachings.
4. Spiritual Growth:
   Acts of charity help in cultivating humility and detachment, essential qualities for spiritual growth.
5. Types of Donations:
   • Annadanam: Donating food to the hungry.
   • Vastradaan: Donating clothes to the needy.
   • Dhanadanam: Donating money to charitable organizations or temples.

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How to Celebrate Maha Shivratri at Home

1. Clean Your Home and Puja Space:
   Begin by cleaning your home and setting up a dedicated puja space with a Shiva Lingam or idol.
2. Perform Abhishekam:
   Bathe the Shiva Lingam with water, milk, and other sacred offerings while chanting mantras.
3. Light a Diya:
   Light a diya (lamp) with ghee or sesame oil to symbolize the removal of darkness.
4. Meditate and Chant:
   Spend time meditating and chanting Shiva mantras like “Om Namah Shivaya” to connect with divine energy.
5. Donate Generously:
   Make a conscious effort to donate to the needy or support charitable causes as part of your celebration.
6. Break the Fast:
   After the night-long vigil, break your fast the next morning with sattvic food like fruits, milk, and nuts.

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Conclusion

Maha Shivratri 2025 is a sacred occasion to connect with the divine energy of Lord Shiva. By observing fasts, performing rituals, engaging in meditation, and donating generously, devotees can experience inner peace and spiritual growth. Whether you are a devout follower or a curious learner, Maha Shivratri offers a unique opportunity to embrace positivity and seek blessings for a prosperous life.

This Maha Shivratri, join hands with KLKI Rising Foundation to make a meaningful difference. Your acts of charity and compassion can bring light to the lives of those in need, aligning with the spirit of Daan (donation) and the teachings of Lord Shiva.

As you perform your donations, chant the Daan Mantra to invoke divine blessings:
“Om Namah Shivaya, Daanena Sukhino Bhavantu”
(Meaning: “I bow to Lord Shiva, may all beings be happy through the act of giving.”)

Celebrate Maha Shivratri 2025 with devotion and enthusiasm, and let the divine energy of Lord Shiva guide you on the path of righteousness and enlightenment.

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FAQs About Maha Shivratri 2025

1. What is the date of Maha Shivratri in 2025?
   Maha Shivratri will be observed on Wednesday, February 26, 2025.
2. What is Nishita Kaal Puja Time?
   Nishita Kaal Puja Time is from 12:09 AM to 12:59 AM on February 27, 2025, considered the most auspicious time for worship.
3. What are the four Prahar puja timings?
   The four Prahar puja timings are:
   • First Prahar: 06:19 PM to 09:26 PM
   • Second Prahar: 09:26 PM to 12:34 AM
   • Third Prahar: 12:34 AM to 03:41 AM
   • Fourth Prahar: 03:41 AM to 06:48 AM
4. Why is donation important on Maha Shivratri?
   Donation is considered a way to seek Lord Shiva’s blessings, purify karma, and support the needy, aligning with the festival’s spiritual essence.
5. What can I donate on Maha Shivratri?
   You can donate food, clothes, money, or support charitable organizations as part of your celebration.
6. Can I perform puja at home?
   Yes, you can perform puja at home by setting up a Shiva Lingam or idol, offering bilva (bael) leaves, and chanting mantras.
7. What should I eat during the fast?
   Devotees consume sattvic foods like fruits, milk, curd, and nuts during the fast. Some also prepare dishes like sabudana khichdi and singhare ka halwa.