India is the country of bright and significant celebrations. Every festival gives us something unique on kindness, courage, truth and devotion. Mahashivratri is one of such festivals. Most of the children observe people visiting temples and offering milk to the Shivling and staying awake at night- but they may question themselves why do we observe Mahashivratri?

We shall see the Mahashivratri meaning using a beautiful and simple story.

What Is Mahashivratri?

Mahashivratri translates to the great night of lord Shiva.

It is a sacred festival that honours lord Shiva who is one of the mightiest but good deities among the Hindu myths. On this evening, religious people pray, fast, sing bhajans and visit temples.

To kids, Mahashivratri of kids is a great occasion to get to know:

• Faith and devotion
• The importance of good deeds
• Remaining strong among the hardships.
• Adherence to Indian culture and traditions.

The History Of Mahashivratri

Mahashivratri is connected with numerous stories. Among the most common and popular Lord Shiva stories about children is the one concerning churning the ocean.

The Samudra Manthan Story

The gods (Devas) and demons (Asuras) long ago resolved to shake the great ocean to derive a magical nectar referred to as Amrit that would make them everlasting.

They took a mountain of massive size as a churning stick.

As a rope they made use of a giant snake.

By dragging on either side they churned the ocean.

When they churned a number of good things were produced, jewels of all goodness, animals of divinity and even Goddess Lakshmi.

But now something extremely dangerous came into view.

The Poison That Could Destroy The World

The churning resulted in the release of a lethal poison by the name Halahala which came out of the ocean. It was so great that it could ruin the whole world.

The gods became afraid.

The demons stepped back.

No one knew what to do.

All people rushed to Lord Shiva to assist.

Lord Shiva Saves The World

Lord Shiva being a kind and brave man did not hesitate. He used the poison himself to save the world.

He was carrying the poison in his throat.

He did not get it all down.

The poison caused his throat to turn blue.

This is the reason why Lord Shiva is also referred to as Neelkanth, which translates to The Blue throated one.

This act showed:

• Great sacrifice
• Courage
• Love for all living beings

Through this story about Mahashivratri children can be able to understand that one of the best qualities that one can possess is helping others.

Another Story: The Marriage Night Of Lord Shiva

There are individuals who suppose that Mahashivratri is also the night in which Lord Shiva married goddess Parvati.

Goddess Parvati took years of prayers and meditation in order to gain the heart of Lord Shiva. He was impressed by her devotion and persistence.

This story teaches children:

• Good things come with time.
• They are hard working and devoted.
• Love is founded on respect and understanding.

What Is The Mahashivratri Celebration Like?

Mahashivratri is a festival that is observed very strongly in India. It is possible even for children to participate in some simple and significant ways.

People usually:

• Visit Shiva temples
• Bring milk, water and leaves of the bell to the Shivling.
• Chant “Om Namah Shivaya”
• Stay awake at night in prayer
• Read cultural folklores to children about Lord Shiva.
• There are also a lot of families that embellish temples and houses.

What Is So Special About Mahashivratri In Children?

Festivals do not simply entail rituals, but they impart values.

• Mahashivratri makes kids realize: through child Indian festivals.
• The importance of kindness
• The value of bravery
• How to be calm and composed in a stressful situation.
• Admiration of traditions and culture.
• As children are being told the story of Lord Shiva among children, they come to know that the best thing to do is to help other people.

Lessons Lord Shiva Can Teach Simple Kids

The personality of Lord Shiva is extremely unique and motivating. He is strong and simple, mighty and yet composed.

Children can learn:

• Stay calm like Lord Shiva
• Provide assistance to others without any form of compensation.
• Be honest and truthful
• Be angry and control your temper, and act thoughtfully.
• Respect nature and animals
• Such teachings render Mahashivratri significant to the youth.

Fun And Safe Ways For Kids To Celebrate

Simple and happy ways of celebrating Mahashivratri can be organized by children.

They can:

• Draw pictures of Lord Shiva
• Make paper tridents (Trishul)
• Read Mahashivratri story to parents.
• Learn simple Shiva bhajans
• Visit a temple with family
• These minor activities make the festival enjoyable and educational.

Mahashivratri Meaning In Simple Words

The deeper Mahashivratri meaning is concerning:

• Victory of good over evil
• Self-control and patience
• Devotion and faith
• Protecting others

It makes us remember that, though everything is in darkness, good and light may prevail.

Conclusion

Mahashivratri is not just a festival. It is an evening of heroism, sacrifice, and obedience. The Mahashivratri story of the beautiful Lord Shiva educates children on the importance of being courageous and kind.

Children are also taught about key values in life through cultural stories to kids and hence they not only learn about religion but also other key values in life. Whenever we have Mahashivratri, we recollect the power and kindness of Lord Shiva.

Learning about Mahashivratri in simple words makes children have fun at the festival and at the same time gain valuable lessons that will remain with them throughout their lifetime.