At the Sivananda Ashram, Rishikesh, the Shivaratri festival is celebrated in the following manner.
The Divine Life Society
All spiritual aspirants fast the whole day, many of them without taking even a single drop of water.
A grand havan is performed for the peace and welfare of all.
The whole day is spent in doing the Japa of Om Namah Shivaya and in meditation upon the Lord.
At night all assemble in the temple and chant Om Namah Shivaya the whole night.
During the four quarters of the night the Shiva Lingam is worshipped with intense devotion.
Sannyas Diksha is also given on this day to sincere seekers on the path.