In 2023, Maha Shivaratri is falling on Saturday, February 18, 2023. When Shivratri falls on Saturday, it is considered highly meritorious and important. In Hinduism, Saturday is dedicated to the worship of Bhagavan Shani or Shaneeshwara – one among the Navagrahas. For those believing in Hindu astrology and horoscope, Shani Bhagavan can create problems in life. It is believed that fasting and praying on Shivaratri day this year will help in removing the effects of Shaneeshwara in one’s life.
It is widely believed that devotees of Shiva cannot be troubled by any of the Navagrahas including Rahu, Ketu and Shani. It is considered highly meritorious to observe puja in a Shiva Temple or Hanuman Temple or Bhairav Temple when Shivratri falls on Saturday.
It must be noted here that Hanuman who is Rudra Avatar is worshipped widely on Saturdays to overcome a maleficent Shani.
For a complete detail about Maha Shivaratri you can read the previous article here.