Maha Shivratri is a Hindu festival that honors the god Shiva. It's celebrated to commemorate the wedding of Shiva and Parvati, and the performance of Shiva's divine dance, the Tandava. It's also a time to seek blessings for spiritual growth and inner peace. 

Why is it celebrated?

To remember Shiva: Devotees observe the festival by fasting, meditating, and chanting prayers. 

To remember the wedding of Shiva and Parvati: The festival is particularly marked by married couples. 

To remember the Tandava: The festival commemorates the performance of Shiva's divine dance, the Tandava. 

To remember the victory of light over ignorance: The festival symbolizes the victory of light over ignorance and darkness. 

To remember the cosmic union of Shiva and Shakti: The festival symbolizes devotion, discipline, and the cosmic union of Shiva and Shakti. 

How is it celebrated? 

Devotees observe night-long vigils.

Devotees chant mantras.

Devotees offer prayers to seek blessings for peace, success, and well-being.

Devotees visit Shiva temples or go on a pilgrimage to the Jyotirlingams.

Devotees share food, clothing, and gifts with the less fortunate.