Mahashivratri celebrates the night of Shiva's cosmic dance, marriage to Parvati, or emergence as a fiery pillar.

1. Dispute: Lord Brahma and Lord Vishnu,
consumed by pride, engaged in an argument
about their superiority.
Linga's Appearance: To settle the dispute, a
luminous Linga (pillar of light) emerged,
stretching infinitely upwards and downwards.
The Search: Both Brahma and Vishnu set out
to find the ends of the Linga, believing they
could prove their dominance.
Brahma's Deception: Reaching a Ketaki flower
placed on the Linga, Brahma lied, claiming he
had found the top with its help.
Shiva's Revelation: The Linga split open,
revealing Lord Shiva in all his glory. He exposed
Brahma's lie and cursed him, stating no one
would primarily worship him due to his
dishonesty.
Vishnu's Humility: Unable to find the Linga's
end, Vishnu returned with humility,
acknowledging Shiva's supreme power.
Union of Opposites: Another significant event
associated with Maha Shivaratri is the sacred
marriage of Shiva and Parvati.
Symbolism: This union represents the balance
and harmony between the masculine and
feminine energies, essential for creation and
sustenance.
The story behind Mahashivratri involves two main narratives,
each offering a different perspective on the significance of the
day:
Cosmic Dance: Some traditions celebrate this day
as the manifestation of Lord Shiva's cosmic dance,
the Tandava, symbolizing the eternal cycle of
creation, preservation, and destruction.
Night of Awakening: Devotees traditionally observe
a night of vigil (Jagran) on Maha Shivaratri,
offering prayers, performing rituals, and practicing
spiritual introspection.
WHAT IS THE STORY
BEHIND MAHASHIVRATRI
THE DISPUTE AND THE LINGA
04
THE MARRIAGE OF SHIVA AND PARVATI
ADDITIONAL POINTS
www.exoticindiaart.com