As Mahashivratri approaches, astrologer, tarot card reader and healer Rinhee Suberwal emphasizes that the sacred night of Lord Shiva is less about rigid rituals and more about devotion, sincerity, and personal connection with the divine. In an exclusive conversation, she breaks down the essential do’s and don’ts to observe on this powerful spiritual occasion.

Sharing the most important practices, Rinhee explains: “On Maha Shivratri, you should first perform Rudrabhishek and prepare Panchamrit to distribute to everyone. You should chant ‘Om Som Somaya Namah.’ After that, offer a pair of silver or copper snakes (Naag-Naagin) to the Lord, and then immerse them in water (Jal Pravah) to eliminate ill effects from Rahu, Ketu, Sun, and Saturn.”

She highlights that these rituals help devotees align their energies and seek protection from planetary imbalances.While many consider fasting an integral part of Mahashivratri, Rinhee offers a refreshing perspective: “In my view, fasting is not that important. Do whatever makes you comfortable—God never said you will only receive blessings through fasting. What Shiva truly values is sincerity. Pray, and continue to do your work with integrity. Shiva spent His life in Tapasya, and I believe that inner discipline matters more than denial of food.”

What Should Not Be Offered to Lord Shiva? Shiva is known to accept simple, pure offerings. Rinhee notes: “Offering Dhatura, flowers, sandalwood mixed in water, pomegranate juice, and sugarcane juice—Shiva likes all of these very much. But some people offer vermilion (Sindoor) or turmeric (Haldi), which should not be done. Other than that, you can do everything.”

She clarifies a common misconception around the night-long vigil “God has never said in any scripture that you can only find Him if you do specific things. He said that if you perform your duties with truthfulness, then you will find Him. Serving your parents, respecting your spouse—these things are tough, but they are true spirituality. As people say, ‘choose the harder right over the easier wrong.’ I completely believe in that.”

On the traditional shunning of non-vegetarian food, Rinhee gives a balanced, inclusive viewpoint: “Following a Sattvic lifestyle on a special occasion is not a bad thing. But being Bengali, I am a non-vegetarian myself. Every region has its own beliefs. I don’t believe in hard and fast rules. Everyone has a unique connection with God—some worship Him as a friend, others as a Guru. It’s your personal choice. But ritualistically, Mahashivratri involves chanting ‘Om Namah Shivaya,’ performing Rudrabhishek, and worshipping Ganpati and Mahadev.”