The Hindu god Shiva is known as the ‘destroyer’; a powerful force of change in the universe.

Along with two other Hindu gods, Shiva makes up the trinity of gods that are responsible for the destruction, creation and order of the universe. The destructive nature of Shiva is considered very important by Hindus as it rids the world of imperfections and allows the way for rebirth and positive change.

Being the destroyer of the universe, Shiva is depicted as having an unruly demeanour but became more tamed by his wife, the goddess Parvati, who brought greater harmony to his life. This is the reason the marriage between the two powerful gods are celebrated by Maha Sivaratri each year.

The festival of Maha Sivaratri is celebrated by Hindu women across Sri Lanka whom fast during the day as a mark of devotion to goddess Parvati, Shiva’s wife.

The marriage between Shiva and Parvati is one of equality and balance, so followers believe the goddess of love and devotion can bless their own marriages to make them strong and enduring.