The Hindu God Shiva is a destroyer and one of the most important deities. Lord Shiva, also known as Mahadeva, is part of the third Hindu trinity, which includes Brahma and Vishnu. Ganesha and Kartikeya are sons of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.  

Here are some of the facts about God Shiva’s symbols and iconography.  Trishul represents the three aspects of consciousness—waking, dreams, and sleeping. Lord Shiva has a loyal vahana, Nandi. Nandi symbolizes dharma—righteous and truthful, infinite consciousness with you. The River Ganga flows from Lord Shiva’s head. Ganga symbolizes knowledge.  Cobra symbolizes passion and desires.  Shiv wears it around the neck to convey to his devotees that he has overcome his earthly desires.  

There are 12 Shivratri in a year, and Maha Shivratri is one of them. We celebrate Maha Shivratri this year on Friday, March 8, 2024. It is celebrated at night. Devotees fast to seek the blessing of Lord Shiva and meditate on the powerful mantra “Om Namah Shivaya”.  Devotees offer prasad to seek blessings. During prayer, make sure to light a diya filled with ghee.  Temples are decorated with flowers and Belpatra, and devotees worship Shivalinga with milk, water, and honey.  Visiting the Shiv temple is considered auspicious on the day of Maha Shivratri.  

Maha Shivratri is a joyous Hindu festival celebrated by singing, dancing, and reciting Lord Shiva’s bhajans and mantras. It is believed to be the most magical time of the year. Lord Shiva got married to Goddess Parvati. On this day, Lord Shiva is honored. Also, it is believed that Lord Shiva drank poison during the churning of the ocean and saved the world from darkness. 

Har Har Mahadev. May Lord Shiva bless us with peace and happiness.  Let’s pray to God Shiva to remove all obstacles from our path and lead us to success and happiness.