Why?

Shivaratri is a great festival celebrating the union of Shiva and Shakti. According to Indian mythology,
Lord Shiva appeared in the form of a Linga at the midnight of Maha Shivaratri. Lord Vishnu and Lord
Brahma were the first to worship Shiva Linga. As a result, Maha Shivaratri is known as Lord Shiva's
birthday, and devotees worship Shiva Linga during Shivaratri. Shivaratri Vrat has been practiced since
ancient times. Shivaratri Vrat is mentioned in Hindu Puranas. According to scriptures, Goddess
Lakshmi, Indrani, Saraswati, Gayatri, Savitri, Sita, Parvati, and Rati all observed Shivaratri.

When?

Masik Shivaratri is celebrated each month on Chaturdashi Tithi during Krishna Paksha.

According to the Amavasyanta School, Masik Shivaratri in the month of Magha is known as Maha
Shivaratri. Purnimanta School, however, considers Masik Shivaratri in the month of Phalguna to be
Maha Shivaratri. The naming convention of the lunar month differs in both schools. Purnimanta and
Amavasyanta Schools, on the other hand, celebrate all Masik Shivaratris, including Maha Shivaratri,
on the same day.

Procedure/Significance?

Devotees who wish to observe the Masik Shivaratri Vrat can begin on Maha Shivaratri and continue
for a year. It is believed that by observing Masik Shivaratri Vrats, impossible and difficult tasks can be
accomplished through the grace of Lord Shiva. During Shivaratri, devotees should stay awake and
perform Shiva Puja at midnight.

When Masik Shivaratri falls on a Tuesday, it becomes extremely auspicious.

Shivaratri Pujan is recommended at midnight, which is known as Nishita Kaal and lasts for two Ghati.

*Nishita kaal is the time when Lord Shiva appeared on the Earth in the form of Linga

*Ghati represents 24 minutes of time