Mahashivratri – The story behind

There are many mythological legends associated with
this day. According to a popular legend, when a hunter could not find anything
to kill for his food in a forest, he waited on the branch of a Woodapple tree.
In order to attract deer, he started throwing the leaves of the tree on the
ground, unaware that there was a Shiva Lingam beneath the tree. 

Pleased with
the Woodapple leaves and the patience of the hunter, it is believed that Lord
Shiva appeared in front of the hunter and blessed him with wisdom. From that
day onwards, the hunter stopped eating meat.
Another legend has it that after the Earth was faced
with an imminent destruction, Goddess Parvati pledged with Lord Shiva to save
the world. Pleased with her prayers, Lord Shiva agreed to save the world on the
pretext that the people of the Earth would have to worship him with dedication
and passion. From that day onwards, the night came to be known as Maha
Shivratri and people began worshipping Shiva with a great enthusiasm.
Some folklore also consider this to be Shiva’s day as
this was believed to be the answer given by Lord Shiva when asked about his
favorite day by Goddess Parvati. Maha Shivratri is a Hindu festival which is
celebrated by people following Hinduism in India. People often fast on the night
of Shivratri and sing hymns and praises in the name of Lord Shiva. Hindu
temples across the country are decorated with lights and colorful decorations
and people can be seen offering night long prayers to Shiva Lingam. Woodapple
leaves, cold water and milk are offered to the Shiva Lingam on this day as they
are believed to be Lord Shiva’s favorite.
It is believed that the people who fast on this night
and offer prayers to Lord Shiva bring good luck into their life. The most
popular Maha Shivratri celebrations take place in Ujjain, believed to be the
place of residence of Lord Shiva. Large processions are carried out throughout
the city, with people thronging the streets to catch a glimpse of the revered
idol of Lord Shiva.
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