Masik Shivaratri 2023: Date, Time, Rituals and Significance

Masik Shivaratri or Maas Shivratri will be observed on 20 March 2023, Monday. According to the Hindu calendar, this fast of Shivaratri is also known as monthly Shivaratri on Chaturdashi Tithi. Shivratri is a sacred occasion and is considered auspicious for the worship of Lord Shiva. Shivratri literally translates to the night of Shiva

Timings

Masa Shivratri or Masik Shivratri is observed on the 13th night, 14th day of every month during the waning moon is (Krishna Paksha) half and Maha shivaratri in 11th Hindu month of Phalguna or Maagh every year, which also happens to be the night before Amawasya(New Moon day)
Significance

Maas Shivaratri or Mini Shivaratri, symbolizes the convergence of Lord Shiva and Goddess Shakti. This day is also considered as an ideal day to worship Lord Shiva and seek his graceful blessings. According to scriptures even Goddess Lakshmi, Indrani, Saraswati, Gayatri, Savitri, Sita, Parvati and Rati observed Shivaratri fast. Mahashivratri is a night of endless possibilities, spiritual success, outbound growth and happiness. Worshiping Lord Shiva with pure heart and soul will help in attaining salvation and grace for a lifetime. Devotees celebrate this auspicious day by fasting and offering special prayers to Lord Shiva. Pouring milk and water (Abhisheka) on the Shiv ling and adorning it with beautiful flowers and bilva patra is also a part of the ritual. Shivratri is not just celebrated in India but in other regions as well including Nepal, where Lord Shiva is worshipped.

Read more: Mahashivratri 2025: Date timings rituals prahar time fasting rules and all you need to know

As per other Hindu mythologies, the observers of the Shivaratri vrata gets the power to conquer the two natural forces that trouble the human form, namely the ‘tamas’ and ‘rajas’ guna. While spending the day meditating, the devotees get a better control over the ill emotions like jealousy, covetousness and anger. Whereas for the ardent disciples of Lord Shiva, observing the Shivaratri vrata is more equal or even more auspicious than performing the powerful Ashwamedha Yagna. It is also believed that a person, who observes the Maha Shivaratri vrata with full discipline and sincerity, would be absolved for all their sins and ultimately get united with the supreme power and live happily in the abode of Lord Shiva. Such devoties are also set free from the repeated cycle of birth and death.