Maha Shivratri
(महाशिवरात्रि)Literal Meaning
The great night of Shiva
Etymology & Sanskrit Root
From 'maha' (great) + 'shiva' + 'ratri' (night).
Spiritual Insight & Context
The dark fourteenth night of Magha (Phalguna by the other calendar), kept with a fast, a night-long vigil and worship of Shiva.