Shivaratri is the greatest festival of Lord Shiva who represents Shakti. Masik Shivratri, as the name suggests, is celebrated every month.
According to North India, Masik Shivratri falling in the month of Magha is called as Maha Shivratri which is celebrated with great enthusiasm. While southern India calls Shivratri falling in the month of Phalguna as Maha Shivratri
Lord Shiva appeared in the form of Shiv Linga on the day of Masik Shivratri.This Linga or shivling was worshipped by Lord Brahma and Lord Vishnu. Therefore the day of Maha Shivratri is celebrated as the birthday of Lord Shiva. Devotees of Lord Shiva observe fast on this day. The tradition has been followed since ages.
This month, the masik Shivrati shall fall on the date of 08 January2016 (Friday) with Shivratri Puja time being 24:00to 24:55+. We recommend our readers to perform puja in the given Mahurat.