Usually, when there is a celebration, awareness is lost. But Mahashivratri is a celebration that comes with restful awareness. It is a time of deep rest for the body, mind, and ego; a deep rest that awakens a devotee to the highest knowledge of the Shiva Tattva.
And rituals here focus the mind and create an atmosphere of sanctity and honour. Human beings cannot live without rituals. Whether religious, spiritual, or even secular, rituals exist everywhere. Hoisting a flag is a ritual. Lighting a lamp is a ritual. Even atheists and communists have rituals.
Ancient people understood this connection with the subtle universe. They knew the connection between the macrocosm and the microcosm. Chanting mantras over water and lighting lamps—all these were meant to influence the environment in a subtle and positive way. A ritual is not just an outer action; it brings a sense of celebration and joy into life and helps centre the mind. For one who is totally centred, with complete dispassion, no ritual is needed. But for one who still wants something—peace, strength, clarity, or grace—a little bit of ritual is always recommended.
Mahashivratri has a special significance for spiritual seekers because on this night, when the constellations are in a particular position, the atmosphere becomes very supportive for meditation. And meditation on this night is considered extremely auspicious, as the Shiva tattva manifests on the earthly plane.
Shivratri literally means “the night of Shiva”. ‘Ratri’ is the time for rest, when everything becomes quiet and peaceful. Shivratri is not only rest for the body but also for the mind and the ego. Celebrating the Shiva Tattva in oneself is Shivratri.
Shiva is the formless principle that pervades everything. He is the space of deep silence and stillness where all activities of the mind dissolve. It is said that a yogi remains awake when others sleep. For a yogi, every day is Shivratri. Mahashivratri shifts the awareness from the many-ness of creation to the oneness of consciousness behind everything.
Shivratri is taking refuge in the divine consciousness, resting in the Shiva Tattva. Join the Mahashivratri celebrations on February 15, 2026, at the Art of Living International Center for an immersive experience of meditation and devotion.
