It is a significant festival in Hinduism, and the festival is solemn and marks the “overcoming of darkness and ignorance” in life and the world. It can be observed by remembering Shiva and offering prayers. Fasting and meditating on ethics and virtues such as honesty, not hurting others, charity, forgiveness and finding Shiva. Devout devotees keep vigil throughout the night. Others visit one of the Shiva temples or go on a pilgrimage to the Jyotirlingas. The festival is an integral part of Hinduism and its origin predates recorded history, although some Western Indologists believe that the festival originated in the 5th century BCE. According to South Indian calendar. Maha Shivaratri is still celebrated on Chaturdashi tithi in Krishna Paksha of Magha month and in other parts of India, Krishna Paksha 13/14th night of Phalguna in Hindu calendar is still celebrated as Gregorian.