Feb 15: The festival of Mahashivratri is being celebrated across the country today with deep devotion and spiritual fervour. Considered one of the most sacred occasions for devotees of Lord Shiva, the day is marked by fasting, special prayers and night-long worship at temples.
Thousands of devotees are taking holy dips at various pilgrimage sites, seeking blessings for peace, prosperity and spiritual growth.
Leaders Extend Greetings
President Droupadi Murmu, Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan and Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended their wishes to citizens on the auspicious occasion.
In her message, the President prayed that the grace of Lord Shiva remain upon all citizens and that India continues to progress on the path of development.
The Vice President, in a social media post, said that from Kashi to Rameswaram, Mahashivratri stands as a living symbol of India’s eternal and unbroken spiritual tradition. He wished that the blessings of Mahadev and Goddess Parvati bring happiness, prosperity and good health to all.
Prime Minister Modi expressed hope that Lord Shiva blesses every citizen and that the nation continues to scale new heights of prosperity.
Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla and Home Minister Amit Shah also conveyed greetings. Mr Birla described Mahashivratri as a festival of faith, penance and self-reflection, highlighting Lord Shiva’s compassion, sacrifice and steadfast resolve.
Devotion at Sangam and Across Uttar Pradesh
In Uttar Pradesh, elaborate arrangements have been made for the holy dip at the Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj, marking the final official bathing of the annual Magh Mela.
Devotees are offering prayers at prominent temples, including the Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi, Mankameshwar Temple, Someshwar Temple and Nag Vasuki Temple. Long queues have been witnessed since early morning, and special arrangements have been made for Kanwariyas carrying Gangajal.
Ujjain, Maharashtra and Beyond
In Madhya Pradesh, the holy city of Ujjain has come alive with devotion at the revered Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga, as thousands gather chanting “Har Har Mahadev.”
In Maharashtra, large crowds are visiting temples such as the Babulnath Temple in Mumbai and the Aundha Nagnath Temple in Hingoli, considered one of the Jyotirlingas. Devotees are performing Abhishek, Rudra Paath and special poojas across the state.
Odisha and Karnataka Mark the Festival
In Odisha, heavy footfall is being reported at the Lingaraj Temple in Bhubaneswar, where the ceremonial ‘Mahadeepa’ will be raised tonight. Devotees are also gathering at Dhabaleswar Temple in Cuttack and other prominent Shaiva shrines.
Karnataka is witnessing vibrant celebrations at major centres such as the Murudeshwar Temple and the Srikanteshwara Temple, with devotees participating in Rudrabhisheka ceremonies and offering bilva leaves.
Across India, the chants of “Har Har Mahadev” and “Bam Bam Bole” resonate through temples and streets, reflecting the deep spiritual significance of Mahashivratri. Authorities in various states have made elaborate arrangements to ensure smooth crowd management and security during the celebrations.
