Bhopal, Mar 5: The worship of Lord Shiva is the most ancient tradition of Indian religion. According to mythological belief, Lord Shiva or Bholenath is very generous and on observing fast and prayers gives desired result instantly. That is why, the worship of Lord Shiva has a lot of importance and Maha Shivaratri is the occasion of devotion and worship of Lord Shiva. This festival is celebrated with great faith and belief throughout the country. As per mythology, Lord Shiva and the daughter of Himalaya, Bhagwati Parwati were tied in the nuptial knot on this pious day. Maha Shivaratri is the festival celebrating this wedding lock. Lord Shiva is also termed as conqueror of time and supreme God. The fast (Vrata) observed on this day has a lot of importance. City Mirror has interviewed some devotees of Lord Shiva to know about the importance of Fasting (Vrata).

Maha Shivaratri carries great importance

Shobha Ojha, State Secretary of Women Congress says 'I am keeping fast on Maha Shivaratri since marriage as I have deep faith and devotion towards Lord Shiva. On this day, there is religious atmosphere and celebration at home. This is the only fast(Vrata) which gives instant result. A great importance is attached with observing fast on this day since times immemorial and people even these days keep fast with great devotion'.

Keeping fast after marriage

Reeta Verma, CMD, Hotel Saral says 'This day is very important from religious point of view. As far as I am concerned, I started observing this fast after my marriage. I offer prayers in temple on Maha Shivaratri. According to mythology, our prime deity Shiva and Parvati were married on this day. During 'Vrata', I don't eat anything. Any 'Vrata' of Lord Shiva gives rapid and desired results'.

Lord Shankar is my favourite God

Vibha Patel, National General Secretary of Women Congress says 'I am ardent devotee of Lord Shankar and always offer prayers to him. Maha Shivaratri has a great significance. I am keeping Fast on this day since childhood. On this day, there are special prayers for Lord Shiva in which 'Jalabhishek' is very important'.

'Vrata' fulfils all wishes

Nidhi Dubey, student, Management Honours says 'We celebrate Maha Shivratri with great enthusiasm. On this day, we go to the temple to offer prayers. I am keeping this 'Vrata' since childhood. This 'Vrata' gives us all happiness and fulfill our wishes'.

Bholenath is very generous

Bhavna, a student of B.Com. First Year says 'It is believed that Lord Shankar hears our prayers instantly and his worship is very easy and instant result giving. I am keeping this 'Vrata' for the last three years. On this day, I offer prayers with full rites and rituals. I have immense faith in this 'Vrata'.

Aakansha, a student of Management Honours says 'I am observing this 'Vrata' for the last three years. For me, there is no specific reason to keep this fast. I am simply observing a tradition followed by my family members'.