Maha Shivratri 2025: Dos and Don'ts

Maha Shivratri, the great night of Lord Shiva, is celebrated with fasting, prayers, and devotion. Observing the right rituals brings blessings

Do – Fasting & Rituals

Fast with sincerity and follow the correct rituals. Take a bath, clean your house, and sprinkle Gangajal for purification. Worship Lord Shiva with devotion.

Setting Up Worship

Place Lord Shiva’s idol or picture in the northeast direction. Offer Bael Patra, Chandan, Dhatura, Bhaang, and raw cow milk. Perform pooja and aarti with full dedication.

Eating During Fasting

Do not starve while fasting! Eat nuts, fruits, and dairy products like milk and butter every two hours to maintain energy.

Hydration is Key

Drink plenty of water, milk, buttermilk, and fresh juices to stay hydrated throughout the day. A well-hydrated body helps maintain focus during fasting.

Use Rock Salt & Mild Spices

Replace table salt with rock salt (sendha namak). Stick to mild spices like cumin, cinnamon, cloves, and black pepper for cooking during fasting

Don't – Forbidden Offerings

Never offer ketki flowers or turmeric to Lord Shiva during worship. These are considered impure and must be strictly avoided.

Avoid Certain Foods

Refrain from eating onions, garlic, mustard oil, masoor dal, and brinjal on this sacred day, as they are not considered suitable for fasting.

Prohibited Substances

Avoid consuming meat, eggs, alcohol, and tobacco. These are strictly prohibited during Maha Shivratri and break the sanctity of fasting.

Say No to Packaged Juices

Do not drink packaged juices, as they may contain added salt and preservatives, which are not suitable for fasting rituals.

Following Maha Shivratri's dos and don’ts ensures a spiritually fulfilling experience. Observe with devotion and purity to seek Lord Shiva’s divine blessings!