Shivaratri is one of the most revered festivals for Lord Shiva’s devotees. While many know about the grand celebration of Maha Shivaratri, did you know there’s a monthly celebration dedicated to Lord Shiva as well? This is called Masik Shivaratri, which literally means "monthly Shivaratri."
In this blog, we'll learn about what Masik Shivaratri is, why it's important, and the dates for observing the Masik Shivratri vrat throughout the year. So, keep reading.
What is Masik Shivaratri?
Masik Shivaratri is observed every month, on Chaturdashi Tithi (the 14th day) of Krishna Paksha (the dark fortnight of the lunar calendar). It falls a day before the new moon (Amavasya). The night is considered highly auspicious for worshiping Lord Shiva. Devotees believe that observing the fast and praying to Mahadev on this night helps one attain inner peace, spiritual growth, and liberation from the cycle of birth and death (moksha).
It is believed that unmarried devotees who observe the masik shivratri vrat every month with utmost faith and devotion are blessed with a desired life partner.
Unlike Maha Shivaratri, which is celebrated with grand festivities, Masik Shivaratri is more personal and focuses on individual spiritual growth. Observing the vrat on Masik Shivaratri is a way to stay connected to Lord Shiva throughout the year.
Also Read : Exploring the Sacred Bond Between Shiva and Nandi
Masik Shivaratri Dates 2024
|
Date & Day |
Masik Shivratri |
Timings |
|
January 9, 2024 |
Pausha Krishna Chaturdashi |
Chaturthi begins: January 9, 2024 - 10:24 PM Chaturthi ends: January 10, 2024 - 08:10 PM |
|
February 8, 2024 |
Magha Krishna Chaturdashi |
Chaturthi begins: February 8, 2024 - 11:17 AM Chaturthi ends: February 9, 2024 - 08:02 AM |
|
March 8, 2024 |
Phalguna Krishna Chaturdashi |
Chaturthi begins: March 8, 2024 - 09:57 PM Chaturthi ends: March 9, 2024 - 06:17 PM |
|
April 7, 2024 |
Chaitra Krishna Chaturdashi |
Chaturthi begins: April7, 2024 - 06:53 AM Chaturthi ends: April 8, 2024 - 03:21 AM |
|
May 6, 2024 |
Vaishakha Krishna Chaturdashi |
Chaturthi begins: May 6, 2024 - 02:40 PM Chaturthi ends: May 7, 2024 - 11:40 AM |
|
June 4, 2024 |
Jyeshtha Krishna Chaturdashi |
Chaturthi begins: June 4, 2024 - 10:01 PM Chaturthi ends: June 5, 2024 - 07:54 PM |
|
July 4, 2024 |
Ashadha Krishna Chaturdashi |
Chaturthi begins: July 4, 2024 - 05:54 AM Chaturthi ends: July 5, 2024 - 04:57 AM |
|
August 2, 2024 |
Shravana Krishna Chaturdashi |
Chaturthi begins: August 2, 2024 - 03:26 PM Chaturthi ends: August 3, 2024 - 03:50 PM |
|
September 1, 2024 |
Bhadrapada Krishna Chaturdashi |
Chaturthi begins: September 1, 2024 - 03:40 AM Chaturthi ends: September 2, 2024 - 05:21 AM |
|
September 30, 2024 |
Ashwina Krishna Chaturdashi |
Chaturthi begins: September 30, 2024 - 07:06 PM Chaturthi ends: October 1, 2024 - 09:39 PM |
|
October 30, 2024 |
Kartika Krishna Chaturdashi |
Chaturthi begins: October 30, 2024 - 01:15 PM Chaturthi ends: October 31, 2024 - 03:52 PM |
|
November 29, 2024 |
Margashirsha Krishna Chaturdashi |
Chaturthi begins: November 29, 2024 - 08:39 AM Chaturthi ends: November 30, 2024 - 10:29 AM |
|
December 29, 2024 |
Pausha Krishna Chaturdashi |
Chaturthi begins: December 29, 2024 - 03:32 AM Chaturthi ends: December 30, 2024 - 04:01 AM |
Meanwhile, here are some mantras you can practice during your fast:
l l Om Trayambhakam Yajamahe
Sugandhim Pushti Vardhanam
Urvarukmiv Bandhanan Mrityor
Mukshiya Ma Maritaat l l
l l Om Namah Shivaay l l
How to Observe Masik Shivaratri Vrat (Fast)?
Masik Shivaratri is a day of fasting and devotion. Here’s a simple guide on how you can observe this vrat:
- Fasting: Many devotees fast from sunrise to the next morning. Some observe a strict waterless fast (Nirjala vrat), while others consume fruits and milk (Phalahar vrat). You can choose to practice any as per your faith and spiritual belief and preference.
- Abhishekam: On the evening of Masik Shivaratri, devotees perform Abhishekam (ritual bath) of the Shiva Linga. The Linga is bathed with water, milk, honey, and panchamrit (a mixture of five sacred substances). This is followed by offering bilva leaves, and flowers, and chanting mantras like “Om Namah Shivaya.”
- Chanting and Meditation: The night is dedicated to chanting Shiva mantras, singing devotional hymns, and meditating on Lord Shiva. The mantra “Om Namah Shivaya” is especially significant during Shivaratri, as it invokes Lord Shiva’s blessings for peace, protection, and spiritual growth.
- Staying Awake: Many devotees stay awake all night (Jagran) and spend time in prayer, chanting, or reading about Lord Shiva’s stories from the scriptures.
- Breaking the Fast: The fast is usually broken the next morning, after offering prayers to Lord Shiva.
Spiritual Benefits of Observing Masik Shivaratri Vrat
Masik Shivaratri is believed to have several spiritual benefits. It is said that fasting and praying on this auspicious day:
- Purifies the mind and body
- Helps in overcoming negative thoughts and emotions
- Brings inner peace and clarity
- Strengthens one’s connection with Lord Shiva
- Helps in seeking forgiveness for past mistakes and sins
- Leads to spiritual progress and Moksha (liberation)
Also Read : 7 Lesser-Known Facts About Shiva Lingam
Difference Between Maha Shivaratri and Masik Shivaratri
While both festivals honor Lord Shiva, there are a few key differences:
Maha Shivaratri: This is the grand annual celebration that falls in the month of Phalguna (February/March). It is celebrated on a larger scale with temple visits, rituals, and community gatherings.
Masik Shivaratri: This is observed every month and is more personal and introspective. It is a regular spiritual practice for devotees who want to deepen their devotion to Lord Shiva.
Conclusion
Masik Shivaratri is a simple yet powerful practice for those devoted to Lord Shiva. By observing the vrat and dedicating the day to spiritual activities, you invite peace, strength, and divine blessings into your life. Whether you’re a dedicated devotee or just beginning your spiritual journey, Masik Shivaratri offers a way to grow closer to the divine and experience the grace of Lord Shiva.
