Maha Shivratri is one of the most important Hindu festivals . Maha Shivratri is celebrated with great enthusiasm . It is the grand night of devotion and fasting for Lord Shiva devotees.

On this day , devotees observe a day-long fast , meditate , visit Shiva temples , recite mantra & prayers OM NAMAH SHIVAYA 108 X 108 times .

The festival is the time to purify body , mind and soul . There are many legends associated with the observance of the festival that range from sacred union of Shiva and Parvati ( Shakti) to the tale of Lord Shiva consuming the Halahala poison , each adding depth to the significance of this auspicious observance .

Maha Shivratri is the night when Shiva performed the heavenly dance of creation, preservation and destruction. It is believed that Lord Shiva consumed Halahala poison produced during Samudra Manthan to save the world . Since he held the poison in his neck , it turned blue and he came to be known as Neelkantha.

The true significance of Maha Shivratri is greater than what's known , fasting helps overcome ignorance and attain self realization . By reflecting on its true nature , the soul attains salvation from the Chakra of Birth and Death .
Observing this fast with sincerity can help absolve past sins and negative Karma and give one a new direction in life . Thus Maha Shivratri is an opportunity to introspect and renew one's connection with the divine to evolve spiritually .