Maha Shivaratri is one of the most pious festivals of Hindus. It is celebrated with great religious fervour and enthusiasm. There are several stories about the origin of this festival. This is a festival of Lord Shiva. According to one legend, a pot of poison emerged during the Samundra Manthan. Both Gods and Devils were indulged in Samundra Manthan and the poison was capable of destroying both parties. So they came running to Lord Shiva and he readily drank the poison but held it in his throat. Because of that his throat got colored in blue and thus he was named as Neelkantha. Another story says about a battle of superiority between Brahma and Vishnu where they were arguing about who is the creator and who has more power. Then emerged, lingam wrapped in flame that left both warring Gods overwhelmed. Both of them tried to ascertain the size but they could not. At that moment, came out Shiva from the Lingam and demanded to be worshipped in his phallic form, the lingam. Interesting stories, indeed.
This festival is celebrated with great fanfare and devotion. Different rituals are followed. However, there are certain items that are must in Maha Shivratri worship like, vermilion paste, food offering, the ceremonial offer of cooling bael leaves to the deity, incense, and lighting of the lamp. All these items represent certain virtues that worshippers need to follow.
The Maha Shivratri night is very eventful. Devotes sing hymns in praise of Lord Shiva. That is one beautiful sight to behold. The usual mantras chanted by devotees are the Panchakshara Mantra and Om Namah Shivaya. It is believed that one who chants the name of Lord Shiva on this day with utmost devotion is freed from all the sins. This festival is also popular with ascetics. Thandai is a popular drink with devotees on this pious day.
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