A night of fasting, prayer and vigil for Lord Shiva, with temples open through the night and processions in many cities.
The story
- The night that marks the union of Shiva and Parvati.
- Many fast through the day and stay awake all night in prayer.
What happens
- The night
Night of Shiva
Fasting and prayer through the night; the night puja runs into the early hours of the next morning.
Best places to see it
1Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Varanasi
One of the 12 Jyotirlinga shrines, which draw large numbers of devotees on Maha Shivratri.
What to eat
Milk ground with nuts, fennel, rose and spices, served in clay cups after darshan. Some shops add bhang (cannabis): ask for it without.
Traditional thandai shops around Godowlia, Varanasi.
Many fast on Shivratri: sabudana and makhana kheer, potatoes cooked with rock salt, and kuttu or singhara flour instead of grains.
Sweet shops and homes; many eateries cook vrat dishes that day.
Know before you go
- Expect long queues at big temples; go early in the evening.
- Many people fast; some temples offer fasting-friendly .
Organised by
Community celebration (temple trusts)
There's no single organiser. Local committees, temples and families make it happen, so welcome and etiquette matter more than tickets.