Masik Shivaratri Tomorrow, 13 September 2023: Tithi, Puja Time, Fast Breaking Timing

Masik Shivaratri is a monthly Hindu festival dedicated to Lord Shiva, one of the principal deities in the Hindu pantheon. It falls on the 13th night (Chaturdashi) of the lunar fortnight in the Hindu calendar month.

While Maha Shivaratri is the grand annual celebration of Lord Shiva, Masik Shivaratri is observed every month with equal reverence, albeit on a smaller scale.

Masik Shivaratri September 2023 Date: September 13, Wednesday.

Tithi Time: September 13, 02:21 AM - September 14, 04:49 AM.

Shivaratri Puja Time: September 13, 11:59 pm - September 14, 12:46 am.

Time for Breaking Fast: September 14, 06:16 AM - 04:49 AM.

The word "Masik" translates to "monthly," and "Shivaratri" means "night of Shiva." This festival holds significant spiritual and religious importance for devotees of Lord Shiva. It is believed that observing Masik Shivaratri with utmost devotion and sincerity can bring blessings, spiritual upliftment, and the fulfillment of desires.

The rituals associated with Masik Shivaratri are similar to those observed during Maha Shivaratri but on a smaller scale. Devotees undertake various religious activities to please Lord Shiva and seek his divine grace. The following are some common rituals performed during Masik Shivaratri:

1. Fasting: Devotees usually observe a strict fast throughout the day and night of Masik Shivaratri. It is believed that fasting purifies the body and mind, and demonstrates devotion and self-control. Some people observe a complete fast without consuming any food or water, while others opt for a partial fast by consuming only fruits, milk, or specific vegetarian food.
2. Abhishekam: In temples and households, the Shiva lingam, a symbolic representation of Lord Shiva, is bathed in water, milk, honey, curd, ghee (clarified butter), and other sacred substances. This ritual, known as "Abhishekam," signifies the cleansing and purifying of the soul.
3. Offering prayers and mantras: Devotees visit Shiva temples and offer prayers, flowers, incense, and fruits to Lord Shiva. They chant mantras and sing devotional songs dedicated to the deity, such as the "Om Namah Shivaya" mantra. Some devotees engage in meditation to attain a deep connection with Lord Shiva.
4. Vigil during the night: Devotees stay awake throughout the night, engaging in prayers, bhajans (devotional songs), and reading or listening to religious scriptures related to Lord Shiva. This practice symbolizes their dedication and vigilance in seeking the divine blessings of Lord Shiva.
5. Rudra Abhishekam: In some places, a special ritual called "Rudra Abhishekam" is performed during Masik Shivaratri. It involves reciting the Rudra Sukta from the Yajurveda and offering various sacred substances to Lord Shiva while chanting his holy names and hymns.
6. Fasting and meditation: Along with physical fasting, devotees also abstain from negative thoughts, emotions, and distractions. They engage in meditation, self-reflection, and introspection to attain spiritual growth and inner peace.

The significance of Masik Shivaratri lies in its ability to provide an opportunity for devotees to deepen their devotion and strengthen their connection with Lord Shiva on a regular basis. It is believed that observing this monthly festival with sincerity and devotion can lead to the attainment of liberation (moksha) and the blessings of Lord Shiva, who is considered the destroyer of evil and the embodiment of divine grace and compassion.

Masik Shivaratri 2023 Dates: