Lord Shiva, also known as Mahadev, is one of the principal deities of Hinduism, revered as the destroyer and transformer within the holy trinity of Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva. He is a symbol of deep meditation, compassion, and cosmic power. Depicted with a third eye on his forehead, a crescent moon adorning his hair, the Ganges River flowing from his locks, a snake around his neck, and a trident (Trishul) in hand, Lord Shiva embodies both fearsome and benevolent aspects of the divine. His constant companion is Nandi, the sacred bull, and his divine consort is Goddess Parvati. Devotees worship Shiva for inner peace, strength, destruction of ego, and liberation (moksha). He is especially worshipped during Maha Shivratri and the holy month of Shravan.