Shivaratri 2024: Auspicious Time And Date For Puja & Abhishekam

The auspicious occasion of Maha Shivratri will be celebrated on March 8, 2024. On this day, devotees organize elaborate puja to worship Lord Shiva. The central ritual during Maha Shivratri is the sacred bath, or Abhishekam. Here are the key details for performing the puja:

Chaturdashi Tithi (14th day of the dark half of the lunar month of Phalguna or Magha):
Begins at 09:57 PM on March 8, 2024.
Ends at 06:17 PM on March 9, 2024.

Nishita Kaal Puja Time:
Begins at 12:07 AM on March 9, 2024.
Ends at 12:56 AM on March 9, 2024.

Auspicious Time on March 8 (First phase, pahar or span of three hours):
Starts at 06:25 PM and continues till 09:28 PM.

Auspicious Time on March 8 (Second phase):
Begins at 09:28 PM and continues till 12:31 AM on March 9.

During the puja, devotees purify their minds, bodies, and surroundings to create an auspicious ambiance. Some also adorn their houses with fragrant flowers, incense sticks, and sacred symbols. 

Fasting and abstaining from worldly indulgences help purify the soul and invoke the blessings of Lord Shiva. The sacred bath (Abhishekam) involves bathing the Shiva Lingam with milk, yogurt, honey, ghee, and holy water, symbolizing purity and divine grace. 

Bilva leaves (Bilva Patra) are offered with deep reverence, signifying the surrender of ego and spiritual awakening. Rudraksha beads, believed to embody Lord Shiva’s tears, hold immense significance in Maha Shivratri rituals. Devotees chant mantras, meditate, and seek attunement with the divine vibrations of Lord Shiva.