Mahashivratri, the festival of Lord Shiva, is celebrated annually on the fourteenth day of the Krishna Paksha (dark fortnight) in the month of Phalgun (February-March). This day holds immense significance for the worship and devotion of Lord Shiva. Devotees observe fasts, perform Rudrabhishek (a ritualistic bath), and chant Shiva mantras throughout the night. It is believed that chanting mantras on Mahashivratri alleviates all life's sufferings and grants desired results. Let's explore some beneficial mantras to chant on this auspicious occasion.
1. Chant the Mahamrityunjaya Mantra
The Mahamrityunjaya Mantra is considered the most powerful and auspicious mantra of Lord Shiva. Chanting this mantra not only provides liberation from fear and the threat of death but also brings happiness and prosperity to life.
Mantra:
"Om Tryambakam Yajamahe Sugandhim Pushtivardhanam,
Urvarukamiv Bandhanan Mrityormukshiya Maamritat||"
2. Seek Shiva's Grace with the Panchakshara Mantra
The Panchakshara Mantra, "Om Namah Shivaya," is a very simple yet powerful mantra dedicated to Lord Shiva. Daily chanting infuses positive energy and removes negativity from life. Chanting this mantra 108 times on Mahashivratri yields special benefits.
Mantra:
"Om Namah Shivaya||"
3. Recite the Rudrashtakam
Rudrashtakam is a powerful hymn praising Lord Shiva. Reciting it removes all life's troubles and bestows Shiva's grace.
Mantra:
"Namamishamishan Nirvanarupam
Vibhum Vyapakam Brahmavedaswarupam.
Nijam Nirgunam Nirvikalpam Niriham
Chidakashamakashavasam Bhajeham||"
4. Recite the Shiva Tandava Stotram
Shiva Tandava Stotram, composed by Ravana, is a powerful hymn. It describes Lord Shiva's Tandava dance and glorifies his magnificence. Reciting this hymn pleases Shiva and fulfills the devotee's desires.
5. Chant the Om Mantra on Mahashivratri Night
The "Om" mantra is considered the primordial sound of creation. Chanting this mantra provides mental peace and boosts self-confidence. Chanting it 1008 times on Mahashivratri yields incredible benefits.
Benefits of Chanting Mantras on Mahashivratri
• Liberation from all life's troubles and sorrows.
• Attainment of mental peace and positive energy.
• Blessings of wealth, happiness, and prosperity through Shiva's grace.
• Protection from diseases and negative forces.
• Increased spiritual awareness and paving the path towards liberation (moksha).
How to Chant Mantras
1. Sit in a clean and peaceful environment.
2. Use a crystal or rudraksha mala (bead string) for chanting.
3. Light a lamp and meditate in front of Lord Shiva's image.
4. After chanting, offer water, belpatra (leaves of the bel tree), and dhatura (a type of flower) to Lord Shiva.
5. Chant the mantras with faith and devotion.
Mahashivratri is the best opportunity to receive Lord Shiva's grace. Chanting mantras with faith and devotion on this day removes all obstacles from life and brings happiness and prosperity. On this auspicious occasion, worship Lord Shiva and make your life successful and joyful through his blessings.
