Maha Shivratri 2024: The four prahars of Maha Shivratri and their significance

For Hindus all over the world Maha Shivratri is a very special day. It's like a big spiritual celebration that happens every year, where people come together to show their love and devotion to Lord Shiva. Mahashivratri falls on the 14th day of the dark fortnight in the month of Phalgun in the Hindu calendar and it is said that the energy of Lord Shiva is at its strongest during this time. People celebrate Mahashivratri by doing different things like prayers, fasting, and other rituals. These actions are done with a pure heart and deep devotion to Lord Shiva.

This year, on March 8, the first prahar will start around 6:27 PM and end at 9:28 PM. The first prahar of Maha Shivratri begins in the evening and extends till late night. During this time, devotees gather in temples or homes to perform rituals and chant mantras dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is believed that worshipping Lord Shiva during this prahar helps cleanse the mind and prepare it for spiritual experiences to come. During the first prahar people are also advised to offer water and pure milk to the shivling.

The second prahar starts after the first one ends, usually around midnight. This year, the second prahar will start around 9:29 PM and end around 12:31 PM midnight. This is considered the most auspicious time for performing Shiva puja and meditation and it is believed that during this prahar, the spiritual energy is at its peak, and sincere devotion can lead to spiritual awakening for many. Utter devotion and concentration on Lord Shiva’s name during this time helps people be more aware and conscious of their being.
Also, during the second prahar, offer the Shivling water and curd.

As the night progresses, the third prahar begins, marking the transition towards dawn. Devotees continue their prayers and meditation, seeking the blessings of Lord Shiva for spiritual growth and enlightenment. The third prahar this time starts at 12:32 PM and will go on till around 3:34 AM. This prahar symbolises the steady awakening of the human consciousness from the darkness of ignorance to the light of knowledge. In this prahar, it is advised that the Shivling be offered water and ghee.

The fourth prahar occurs just before dawn breaks and is the one that falls during the Brahma Muhurta. It is believed that during this time, the divine energy enters the atmosphere, making it ideal for deep meditation and introspection. During the Brahma muhurta and the starting of the fourth prahar, devotees reflect on their spiritual journey through the night and express gratitude for the blessings received from Lord Shiva.
During the fourth prahar, it is said that the Shivling should be offered honey, water and milk.

Meditating during Maha Shivratri is like cleaning and purifying ourselves from within. It helps make our minds, bodies, and souls pure and more in sync with our energies. When we meditate during the four prahars, it's like we're connecting with the special energy of Lord Shiva. This can help us grow spiritually and even make our wishes come true because of the strong spiritual vibes around us. When we meditate deeply, we create a strong link with the divine, making it easier for our true desires to come to life.