In Mauritius Maha Shivaratri is very auspicious occasion for people. Mauritius people fast for days  and offers prayers to Lord Shiva. Shivratri 2010 is falling on 12th Feb 2010 i.e. Friday. It is believed that Lord Shiva is the first sage (Guru) who originated yogic ritual. Neelakantha is the other name of Lord Shiva as taken all the dangerous poison during the Samundra Manthan. The snake around the neck of Lord Shiva was placed to reduce the effect of poison in the throat of Lord Shiva.

According to the Indian calendar Maha Shivratri falls in the month of Phalgun during Krishna Paksha. In Sanskrit ‘Krishna Paksha’ refers to the dark fortnight. In the night of fading moon devotees sing mantras and hymns in praise of the Lord Shiva.

In Hindu tradition it is believed that night is known as Shivaratri when Lord Shiva performed the Tandava Nritya. While some other says that it is the night when the wedding of Lord Shiva and Gaura (Parvati ji) taken place. Some believed that Parvatiji worshiped to Lord Shiva to save the whole world from the Pralaya.

Devotees give a customary bath to the Lord Shiva’s Lingam with the panchagavya. The panchagavya includes milk, urine, sour milk, butter and dung.

There is the special meaning for girls and ladies of Shivratri fasting event. It is believed that this fast is best for getting good husband. Ladies offer prayers to Goddess Parvati (Gaura). Gaura ji is known as the giver of ‘suhag‘, marital blessings and prosperous married life.

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