Mahashivratri is a Hindu festival celebrated annually in honor of Lord Shiva, one of the gods in the Hindu pantheon. It is celebrated on the 13th night/14th day of the Hindu lunar month of Phalguna, which falls in February or March. This year, it will be observed on Saturday, February 18, 2023. The festival is observed by fasting, chanting prayers and hymns dedicated to Lord Shiva, and offering fruits, flowers and milk to a lingam (a symbol of Lord Shiva). Some devotees also observe a night-long vigil, participating in spiritual activities and singing devotional songs. Mahashivratri is considered a highly auspicious day for Hindus and is celebrated with great devotion and fervor across India and other countries where Hindu communities reside.