FIJI, February 24, 2009: For Mahasivaratri, many temples in Fiji observe a three-night festival which culminates with a grand prayer ceremony on the last night (tonight).
Devotees strongly believe that sincere worship of Lord Shiva on the auspicious day of Shivaratri, absolves a person of sins and liberates him from the cycle of birth and death. Shivaratri is considered especially auspicious for women. While married women pray for the well being of their husbands unmarried women pray for a husband like Lord Shiva, who is regarded as the ideal husband.
Devotees also offer 108 Bilwa leaves to the Shiva Linga to seek blessings. These leaves are believed to be the best offering for Lord Shiva and have great significance as highlighted in the Shiv Puranas.