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The Masik Shivratri fast is believed to bring increased happiness and prosperity. By observing this fast and worshipping Lord Shankar, all desires are fulfilled, and joy is sustained in life.
Masik Shivratri, observed on the Chaturdashi Tithi of Krishna Paksha every month, holds immense spiritual significance for devotees of Lord Shiva. During this time, devotees fast and perform rituals dedicated to Lord Shiva. While prayers can be offered throughout the day, the Nishita Kaal Puja, performed at midnight, is considered particularly auspicious. This month, as the Krishna Paksha of Margashirsha, also known as Agahan, is underway, the Masik Shivratri falls on the 14th day of the lunar cycle.
Astrologer Dr Ganesh Mishra from Central Sanskrit University in Puri sheds light on the date, auspicious timings, and special yoga associated with the upcoming Agahan Masik Shivratri.
Agahan Masik Shivratri 2024 Date:
As per the Vedic calendar, the Chaturdashi Tithi of Krishna Paksha in the month of Agahan starts on Friday, November 29, at 8:39 AM and ends on Saturday, November 30, at 10:29 AM. Therefore, Agahan Masik Shivratri will be observed on Friday, November 29, 2024.
Agahan Masik Shivratri 2024 Puja Timings
Nishita Kaal Puja:
The most favourable time for worship on Masik Shivratri is Nishita Kaal, lasting 54 minutes. For Agahan Masik Shivratri, this period falls between 11:43 PM and 12:33 AM, making it ideal for devotees to perform the midnight puja.
Brahma Muhurta and Daytime Worship:
Daytime worship can be performed during Brahma Muhurta, from 5:07 AM to 6:01 AM, or after sunrise at 6:55 AM on November 29. Another auspicious time for daytime rituals is Abhijit Muhurta, between 11:48 AM and 12:30 PM.
On the day of Agahan’s Masik Shivratri, the auspicious Shobhan Yoga will remain in effect from early morning until 4:34 PM. Additionally, the Swati Nakshatra will be present from the start of the day until 10:18 AM, after which the Vishakha Nakshatra will take over. Bhadra considered a shadow period associated with Patal Lok, will begin at 8:39 AM and last until 9:38 PM on Shivratri day. Despite its timing, Bhadra does not affect Shiv Puja, as Lord Shiva is beyond such restrictions due to his supreme status as Mahakaal. Similarly, Rahu kaal is not observed on this day, as Lord Shiva transcends all such constraints.
Significance
Masik Shivratri is a spiritually significant occasion, where fasting and devoted worship of Lord Shiva are believed to fulfil one’s desires and alleviate sorrows, struggles, and sins. Chanting Shiva mantras and performing Rudrabhishek, a sacred ritual of bathing the Shiva Lingam, is thought to bring divine blessings and eliminate the fear of untimely death. Devotees observe this day with steadfast faith, seeking Lord Shiva’s grace for peace, prosperity, and liberation from worldly suffering. Unmarried women observe this fast to get married, while married women keep it to maintain happiness and peace in their married life.