Observing Maha Shivaratri in the Workplace
Looking for a quick, actionable way to recognize Maha Shivaratri at work? This post gives you a fast, DIY DEI tip you can apply right now.
Maha Shivaratri is a major Hindu observance that honors Lord Shiva, the deity of destruction, transformation, and renewal. Celebrated through night-long prayer, fasting, meditation, and spiritual reflection, this holy night invites quiet introspection and deep devotion.
In the workplace, Maha Shivaratri is an opportunity to recognize the importance of religious and spiritual practices—and to ensure Hindu employees feel seen, respected, and supported. Here’s why that matters.
Why This Holiday Matters
In the Workplace, We Can Use Maha Shivaratri to Support Spiritual Inclusion Without Assumptions. Religious and spiritual observance is a key part of identity. Here’s how this day connects to inclusion at work:
✅ It affirms Hindu employees’ right to observe sacred days without needing to justify them.
✅ It challenges workplaces to offer flexibility for fasting, prayer, or rest without stigma or interruption.
✅ It creates a broader, more global understanding of religious holidays beyond dominant Western norms.
✅ It fosters respect for faith-based rhythms that support employee well-being and purpose.
Celebrating Maha Shivaratri with care sends a clear message: all spiritual paths deserve recognition.
One Inclusive Celebration Idea
Try this inclusive activity to mark Maha Shivaratri at work:
Share a Respectful Maha Shivaratri Message + Scheduling Reminder
Here’s how:
Share a short internal note that explains what Maha Shivaratri is, when it falls, and how it’s observed.
Include respectful language like: “To those observing, may your Maha Shivaratri be filled with peace and renewal.”
Encourage managers to check in with their teams and offer scheduling flexibility around fasting or prayer. Avoid superficial imagery or themed events—keep the focus on respect and accommodation.
Link to trusted resources like Hindu American Foundation. This supports inclusion without performance—and centers real religious needs.
Ready to explore more workplace-ready tips? Keep reading.
Ready for More?
Would you like a more detailed celebration guide for this holiday? 👉 Join our Free Community Here Inside, you’ll find DIY DEI guides, a full diversity calendar, and practical tools to help you build an inclusive workplace—without overwhelm.
Pause & Reflect
How does your workplace accommodate spiritual practices—not just tolerate them?
