INDIA, February 13, 2007: Dr. Advaitavadini Kaul has published a useful article on the celebration of Mahasivaratri in Kashmir. Mahasivaratri, one of the major Hindu festivals, occurs on February 15 this year. Kaul’s article is available at the URL above. An excerpt:
“Mahasivaratri is one of the most important festivals associated with Siva worship. In different parts of the country, various myths are ascribed to the observance of the day. Kashmir has the most distinct celebration. According to one legend, Lord Siva performs the ritualistic dance of Creation, Preservation and Dissolution on this night and so devotees also spend the night fully awake while reciting praises of Siva. Saiva tradition of Kashmir has been very strong at both levels-the metaphysical and as ritualistic practice. The celebration of Sivaratri is unique in Kashmir. It is celebrated with the same zest and grandeur as Diwali is celebrated in North India. The earliest available text (6th/7th Cen. A.D.) from Kashmir the Nilamatapurana, lists the festivals and rituals of Kashmir. It describes Sivaratri festival as: ‘Sivalinga from which the blanket like plaster of purified butter has been removed is to be worshipped on the dark 14th of Phalguna…. Sivalinga is to be worshipped with perfumes, garlands, unguents and naivedya consisting of animals made of flour. The worshippers are enjoined to observe fast during the day and vigil at night listening to the Sivadharmas and the stories of Siva incarnations. On the 15th day, the worship of Siva is prescribed and worshippers have to take meals consisting of Kulmasa and sweetmeats.’ “