Healthy Delicacies of Maha Shivratri

As we all know Maha Shivratri is the festival celebrated annually in the honor of Lord Shiva. It comes once a year in late winter and before the arrival of summer.

Maha Shivratri means the great night of Shiva. On this day, people fast the whole day to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva and worship him all day. It is one of the major festivals of Hindus and this festival is solemn and marks a remembrance of “overcoming darkness and ignorance”.

People worship, meditate, chant prayers and do other rituals for making Lord Shiva happy. People also offer various sweets, fruits, leaves, milk to Shiva. Chanting of the Shiva maha-mantra “Om Namah Shivaya” goes on all day in various temples. Maha Shivaratri, or great Shivaratri, is held on 13th night (waning moon) and 14th day of the month Phalguna.

If you are fasting this Maha Shivratri, we have got you some delicacies that can be made on the occasion of Maha Shivratri:

Thandai: This popular drink from Rajasthan is made with dry fruits, saffron, and milk. Prepared in a very unique way, Thandai is rich, frothy and satiating. Starting with almonds and pistachios, cashew nuts, blending it all together and adding milk with saffron, comes out as the heavenly Thandai. Garnish the glass with some saffron on it and you are good to go.

Makhanas: A very nice snack to binge on, Makhanas are healthy as well as tasty. They are perfect for fast as they can be made without onion and garlic. To make Makhanas, one can simply put oil in a pan and add some rock salt used during fasting and roast the Makhanas in it. One can make it within no time and a healthy snack is ready for you.

Sabudana Kheer: This creamy pudding made with Tapioca pearls simmered in hot milk is another really good option to enjoy while you fast. Sabudana Kheer is a very traditional sweet dish made across most regions in India. Before making it, the sabudana has to be soaked in water overnight while you get the milk boiled added with sugar. Condense the milk properly, add some water and sabuduna and boil it. You have the sweetest delicacy ready in front of you.

Bottle Gourd-Carrot Juice: How about something refreshing? Let’s get you familiar with this juice which is amazing in taste and filled with the goodness of various nutrients that keep you hydrated. Get some raw bottle gourd and carrots, ginger, mint leaves, lemon juice, salt, honey, and water to make it smooth, blend it all and your detox drink is ready.

Over to you

Maha Shivratri, the most auspicious time is a unique opportunity to eat healthily and worship for your well being throughout the year. Celebrate Maha Shivratri by giving yourself some treats and by making these delicacies at home. Happy Maha Shivratri all!