This year, close to a 100,000 people from about 100 countries are expected to arrive at the pristine and vibrant Art of Living International Center, Bangalore, to celebrate the Mahashivratri festival in the presence of the humanitarian and spiritual leader Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, Founder, The Art of Living.
Maharudrabhishekam, an ancient Vedic ceremony will be performed by hundreds of Vedic priests amidst powerful chanting and offerings, that will enliven the atmosphere with sacred and positive vibrations.
The celebrations will also be marked by meditation at midnight, guided by Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar himself, and singing of Shiva bhajans.
About the significance of Mahashivratri, Gurudev says, “Since thousands of years people have experienced and worshiped the Shiva Tattva. On the day of Shivratri, the Shiva Principle, which remains above the material plane, touches the physical world. Shivratri is the most auspicious time to rise above the mundane and bask in the supreme glory of the infinite, innocent and blissful Shiva tattva."
The live webcast can be viewed on YouTube and Facebook. Kindly note, the webcast will start at 7:30 pm tentatively.
Mahashivratri celebrations schedule
Date: 24th Feb
7:30 pm - 8:00 pm: Cultural Performances
8:00 pm onwards: Maha Rudra Puja followed by Satsang and Prasadam
11:40 pm - 12:00 am: Om Namaha Shivaya Chanting
12:00 am - 12:30 am: Midnight meditation and Bhajans
Date: 25th Feb
4:30 am: Maha Rudra Homa, Rudra Puja and Satsang