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Mahadev, the God of Gods

Lord Shiva

Lord Shiva, among the Trinity the god of dissolution, is worshipped as 'Mahadev', the god of gods. A resident of Mount Kailash, husband of Mata Parvati, and father of Ganesha and Kartikeya, he is worshipped across India in the form of the twelve Jyotirlingas. Everything related to him, including chalisa, aarti, vrat kathas, festivals, and temples, is gathered here in one place.

Lord Shiva

Lord Shiva Mahatmya

Lord Shiva is worshipped among the Trinity as the god of dissolution and renewal, regarded as formless, without beginning or end, most commonly worshipped in the form of the Shivalinga. For holding the deadly Halahala poison from the Samudra Manthan in his throat, he is also called 'Neelkanth' (the blue-throated one).

Lord Shiva is worshipped across India in the form of the twelve Jyotirlingas, from Somnath to Grishneshwar, and Maha Shivratri, observed in memory of his wedding to Mata Parvati, is the greatest Shiva festival. His Pradosh vow is kept on every Trayodashi tithi, and a special Somvar (Monday) vow during the Shravan month.

His five-syllable mantra 'Om Namah Shivaya' is regarded as simple yet immensely powerful, and the trishul, damaru, crescent moon on his head, serpent around his neck, and third eye are his chief symbols. His Ardhanarishvara form, depicting Shiva and Shakti as one inseparable being, is also well known, symbolizing the balance of the masculine and feminine in creation.

Readings Related to Lord Shiva

बारह ज्योतिर्लिंग

The Twelve Jyotirlingas

About Lord Shiva

This page is a single collection of everything related to Lord Shiva, including chalisa, aarti, vrat kathas, festivals, and temples, gathered in one place.

The information on this page is presented with easy-to-read sizing and print support.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many Jyotirlingas are there in total?

There are twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva located across India, each with its own mythological significance.

When is the Pradosh vrat observed?

The Pradosh vrat is observed on the Trayodashi tithi of every month, named Ravi, Som, Bhaum, etc. Pradosh depending on which weekday it falls on.

Why is Maha Shivratri celebrated?

It is celebrated in memory of Lord Shiva's wedding to Mata Parvati and in commemoration of his manifestation.

What is the significance of the 'Om Namah Shivaya' mantra?

It is Lord Shiva's five-syllable mantra, regarded as simple yet immensely powerful, chanted for peace of mind and spiritual growth.

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Key Facts

AbodeMount Kailash
ConsortMata Parvati
SonsGanesha and Kartikeya
VehicleNandi (the bull)
Favored DayMonday
Chief MantraOm Namah Shivaya (the five-syllable mantra)
SymbolsTrishul, damaru, and the third eye