Maha Sivaratri

Maha Sivaratri marks one of the most significant nights on the yogic calendar, honoring the union of Siva and Shakti. This all-night vigil at Sivananda Ashram Yoga Retreat takes place over two days in March, conducted entirely in the classical Tantric tradition. A South Indian Tantric priest leads traditional fire ceremonies (homas) and prayer rituals (pujas) throughout the evening. Senior ashram staff guide continuous chanting of Siva mantras from dusk until dawn, while participants receive blessed offerings in the morning. The retreat draws practitioners seeking to align with an ancient spiritual observance, engaging in rhythmic mantra repetition, ceremonial practice, and sustained meditation across the night. This is not a casual attendance but rather an immersive, devotional experience rooted in authentic practice.