What’s the reason people celebrate Maha Shivaratri?

 On the day of Mahashivratri, Lord Shiva appeared as a Linga. Other beliefs are that Shiva got married today and drank the poison.

Dear children, I am delighted at your worship on this holy day. Henceforth this day will be famous as “Śivarātri” the holiest of holy days pleasing to me. He who performs the worship of my Liṅga and the embodied image on this day will be competent, to perform the task of creation and the maintenance etc. of the universe. The devotee shall observe fast on Śivarātrī, both during the day and the night. He shall perfectly restrain his sense-organs. He shall adore (with flowers) to the extent of his strength. He shall not deceive any one. By the worship on Śivarātrī day the devotee attains that fruit which usually accrues to one who continuously worships me for a year.

• Shiva Purana, Vidhyeshwar Samhita, Chapter 9.

Why is Sharad Purnima celebrated?

 

Moon : Vedic traditions believe; Lord Chandra (moon) becomes the most powerful on Sharad Purnima.

According to astrology ; it happens to be the most important Purnima (full moon night in almanac.

It also indicates arrival of Sharad (winter season).

Lakshmi : According to sacred texts ; Goddess Sri Lakshmi appeared on Sharad Purnima.

Krishna : According to Srimad Bhagwat Purana; Lord Sri Krishna performed Maharas on Sharad Purnima.

16 Kalas : Many associate Lord Sri Krishna with 16 Kalas (special arts or qualities).

Well, Lord Krishna is known as master of 16 special arts. Many also adore him as lord of moon.

Maharas : It is cosmic dance performed by Lord Sri Krishna along with his 8 wives and 108 Gopis.

Belief :Many devotees believe that Lord Krishna still performs Maharas on Sharad Purnima.

Cure : Ayurveda claims that Kheer kept under full moon rays on Sharadiya Purnima cures diseases.

Many naturopaths claim, this kheer cures patients of stress ; insomnia ; asthma ; stomach ache etc.

Fact : It is also known as Kojagiri (awakened) Purnima.

Many devotees stay awake and worship Lord Sri Lakshmi Narayan.

Prayer : Sri Ganeshaya Namah Jai Sita Ram Narayan Jai Sri Krishna Narayan Namo Parvatipataye Har Har Mahadev Shiv Shambo !

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