Mahashivratri Recipes & Its Importance

Mahashivratri Recipes & Its Importance Mahashivratri is a Hindu festival celebrated in honor of Lord Shiva.”Maha”means great and “Shivratri”means the night of Shiva.The festival usually falls on the 13th night and 14th day of the waning moon in the Hindu month of Phalguna (February or March in the Gregorian calendar).

Devotees observe MahaShivratri by fasting, participating in prayers and rituals,and staying awake throughout the night.It is believed that Lord Shiva performs the cosmic dance,known as the Tandava,on this night and devotees seek his blessings for health,prosperity and spiritual growth.

Many people visit Shiva temples on MahaShivratri and the Lingam (an abstract representation of Shiva) is worshipped with offerings of water, milk, fruits and Bilva leaves.Special prayers and hymns are chanted and devotees meditate to attain spiritual awakening.

The festival holds significance in Hindu mythology and has different legends associated with it.MahaShivratri is celebrated with enthusiasm and devotion in various parts of India and by Hindu communities around the world.

Food Consumed During Mahashivratri

During MahaShivratri many devotees observe a fast and abstain from consuming certain foods.The type of fasting varies among individuals and some may choose to abstain from all food and water for the entire day,while others may opt for a partial fast allowing specific foods.

The choice of food during MahaShivratri may also depend on regional customs and personal preferences.Here are some common foods that people often consume during this festival.

1.Fruits : Many devotees choose to eat fruits during the fast.Fresh fruits like bananas, apples, oranges, and berries are popular choices.

2.Milk and Dairy Products : Some people consume dairy products such as milk,yogurt and paneer (cottage cheese) during their fast.These items are considered pure and are often included in special fasting recipes.

3.Vrat Ke Chawal (Bhagar /Barnyard Millet) : In some regions, people may choose to consume special grains like vrat ke chawal (barnyard millet) during their fast.

4.Sabudana (Tapioca Pearls) : Sabudana is a common ingredient during fasting, and dishes like sabudana khichdi (a savory preparation) or sabudana kheer (a sweet dish) are popular choices.

5.Singhare Ka Atta (Water Chestnut Flour) : Water chestnut flour is often used to prepare various dishes during Maha Shivaratri fasting.It can be used to make puris,parathas & sweets.

6.Rock Salt : Regular salt is avoided during fasting, and rock salt (sendha namak) is used as an alternative.It is a common ingredient in fasting recipes.

7.Dry Fruits : Nuts and dry fruits like almonds,cashews and raisins are good sources of energy and are often included in the diet during fasting.

8.Potatoes & Sweet Potatoes : In some regions,people include potatoes & sweet potatoes in their fasting meals.Dishes like boiled or roasted potatoes & sweet potatoes are commonly consumed.

9.Wood Apple : Wood apple or kauth has a special importance on the day of mahashivratri.It is favorite of Lord Shiva.It is said that Mahashivratri is incomplete without Wood apple prasad.

10.Khajur / Dates : Khajur’s are also widely consumed on the day of mahashivratri.

It’s important to note that the specific dietary restrictions and choices may vary based on individual preferences and cultural practices.

Food Recipes For Mahashivratri On This Blog

Celebrate this Mahashivratri with this delicious preparation of above food and share your feedback with us in the
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