Shivratri 2026: Unlock Shiva's Blessings with True Upavasam and Vigil

• Maha Shivratri is a sacred day for devotees, symbolizing Shiva's existence, dharma, balance, and culture.
• The day offers an opportunity to fast (upavasam) and keep vigil (jagaram), focusing the mind on Lord Shiva.
• Upavasam has two meanings: abstaining from food (with health benefits but not for all) and sitting close to Shiva.
• True upavasam involves keeping the mind intimately connected to Lord Shiva, a spiritual act beyond mere physical fasting.
• To attain full merit, prohibit non-vegetarian food and alcohol, wake early, take a head bath, make a resolve, and perform vigil with sacred intent, visiting a Shiva temple the next day.