Tue Feb 25 02:50:00 UTC 2025: ## Maha Shivratri: What Not to Offer Lord Shiva
**New Delhi, February 24** – Maha Shivratri, the auspicious festival dedicated to Lord Shiva, will be celebrated on February 26th. While devotees offer prayers and water to the Shivling, certain offerings are considered forbidden according to religious scriptures.
This year, many will be celebrating the night of Shiva, hoping for their wishes to be fulfilled. However, it’s crucial to be aware of what not to offer. Offering sindoor (vermillion), kumkum (red powder), or roli (red powder) is prohibited, as it’s believed to be inauspicious given Shiva’s role as the destroyer. Similarly, turmeric, associated with feminine energy, is also not offered.
The scriptures also prohibit offering Tulsi leaves due to a legend involving Tulsi’s curse on Shiva after he killed her husband. Additionally, water should not be offered using a conch shell, as it’s associated with the demon Shanku who was slain by Shiva. Finally, ketki, kaner, kewda, and red flowers are also considered inappropriate offerings.
Devotees are urged to be mindful of these restrictions while celebrating Maha Shivratri.
First Piper 