Maha Shivratri will be celebrated on February 15, 2026, when devotees perform special worship of Lord Shiva, revered by several names including Mahadev and Bholanath. Central to Shiva’s mythology is the concept of his third eye, regarded not only as a symbol of anger but also as a source of divine knowledge and power. Various legends explain its significance, showcasing the depth of Shiva’s character beyond mere rage.

One prominent myth recounts an incident during a yagna organized by Daksha Prajapati, to which Shiva and his consort Sati were invited. During this event, Shiva faced humiliation, which Sati could not endure, leading her to sacrifice herself in the fire. This act caused Shiva to withdraw from worldly affairs and enter deep meditation, grieving his beloved. In the interim, Sati reincarnated as Parvati, and the gods sought a way to unite them once more, prompting the intervention of Kamadeva, the god of love.

To divert Shiva from his trance, Kamadeva shot a flower arrow during Sati's incarnation attempt to awaken his attention. This act was pivotal, not only in ending Shiva's meditation but also in the eventual reunion of Shiva and Parvati. The tale encapsulates the essence of love, loss, and the power of devotion, while also emphasizing the multifaceted symbol of Shiva's third eye, which continues to inspire spiritual reflection among devotees.