Aadar Satkar

Dear readers,
2009 is a Mars predominant year and thus Rudra (Shiva) needs to be pleased to end our misery this year.

People often misunderstand Shiva as only a mythological character. I have always said that Shiva is so much more than that. How else can one explain the lines of Atmashtakam?

I am absolutely no authority on religion or Shiva. I am just a simple learner who wishes to keep the soul of Shiva burning in him forever. Neither am I a Guru nor a learned man. I pray each day that I always remain a student for He alone can be the Guru, the shower of light.

With my very minuscule understanding of religion and Shiva, I would recommend the following for my readers on Feb 22, 2009 night (USA time). For India time, it would Feb 23, 2009 night.

For readers who believe in rituals and religion: Fasting till the Tithi ends if possible is the best possible thing. However, if this cannot be done then pouring water on a Shiv Linga on Feb 23 morning before going for work is strongly advised. Even if that is not possible, in the whole time of the Tithi, even if once recites the Panchaksari mantra "Aum Namah Shivay", that itself can do wonders.

For readers who are atheists or don't believe in religion: Calling up old teachers (Gurus), parents and grandparents and showing them respect and love can do wonders on this Tithi. If possible, donations done on Old Age homes or little things done for an elderly person can result in utmost blessings from Shiva. Shiva is all about Love, so please try to be with your family, spouse and children on this Tithi - this pleases Him the most. If you have been planning on watching a film or dining out then Feb 22 evening is the best time to do so with your loved ones.

Happy Maha Shiv Ratri in advance!

~Souvik