Matunga Shankara Mattham celebrates Maha Sivaratri 2026

K.A.Viswanathan

The Great Night of Lord Shiva,  Maha Shivaratri , is one of the most sacred festivals in Hinduism dedicated to Lord Shiva and is observed with deep devotion , celebrated at the Sri Sankara Mattham, Matunga.The sacret day comes on the Chaturdashi Tithi of the Krishna Paksha in the month of Magha, falling on the 14th night of the dark fortnight in Phalguna (February-March), according to Gregorian calendar.

The festival is often associated with profound spiritual symbolism. It is believed that on this sacred night, Lord Shiva performed a divine and mesmerizing dance, representing the cosmic cycles of creation, preservation, and destruction. Another popular legend highlights the divine union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, representing the balance and harmony of cosmic energies, while some see it as the moment Shiva transcended form and became Nishkala beyond time and space.

Devotees observe the day with fasting, many abstaining from food and water as an act of

purification, while some consume fruits and milk. Staying awake through the night is a key

part of the observance, symbolising the overcoming of darkness and ignorance and a

movement toward spiritual awareness. Unmarried ladies pray for the Lord’s blessings to get a good husband and others for the well being of their families.

Ritual worship includes abhishekam, the ceremonial bathing of the Shiva Linga with milk,

honey, ghee, sugar, water, and bilva (Bil)) leaves. Each offering holds symbolic meaning and

reflects devotion and surrender. Chanting of “Om Namah Shivaya”  continues throughout the night, while temples are adorned with flowers and lights.

The celebration at Sri Sankara Matham begun with Rudra Homam in the afternoon

of February 15, followed by Vasordhaara. The first Yaama (phases) commences in the evening

with Mahanyasa Rudra Japam. Then the Laksharchana , offering with bilwa leaves with the chanting of “Om Nama Shivaya “one lakh times . The Offerings, culminating in the powerful  Nishita Kaal meditation and concluded with deeparadhana on the following morning.

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