STATE TIMES NEWS
JAMMU/SRINAGAR: Maha Shivratri, one of the most auspicious Hindu festivals dedicated to Lord Shiva, was celebrated with immense devotion and enthusiasm across Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday.
Thousands of devotees gathered at temples, offering their prayers and seeking divine blessings. The occasion, which marks the celestial union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, was observed with night-long vigils, sacred rituals, and community feasts, making it a spiritually enriching experience for all.
In Jammu, some of the most revered temples, including the Ranbireshwar Temple, Aap Shambhu Temple, and Peer Kho Temple, became the focal points of devotion. These temples were adorned with intricate floral decorations and illuminated with vibrant lights, creating a mesmerizing spiritual ambiance.
From the early hours of the morning, devotees queued up outside these sacred places, eager to perform the traditional ‘Jal Abhishek,’ where water, milk, honey, and other offerings were poured over the Shivling while chanting powerful Vedic mantras. The atmosphere resonated with the fervent echoes of ‘Har Har Mahadev’ as worshippers expressed their unwavering faith in the divine.
Special Rudra Abhishek ceremonies were conducted at several temples, with priests reciting ancient hymns and conducting elaborate Aarti rituals. Many devotees observed strict day-long fasts, breaking them only after the midnight prayers. The fasting was seen as an act of devotion and purification, believed to cleanse one’s soul and bring divine blessings.
Apart from temple rituals, several community centers hosted cultural and religious programs. Shiva Bhajans and Kirtans were performed throughout the night, enhancing the spiritual energy of the festival. Devotees engaged in storytelling sessions about the legends of Lord Shiva, emphasizing the significance of Maha Shivratri and its teachings on devotion, self-discipline, and righteousness.
In Kashmir, Maha Shivratri is celebrated as ‘Herath’ by the Kashmiri Pandit community, an occasion of immense traditional and religious significance. The Shankaracharya Temple and Kheer Bhawani Temple witnessed a large gathering of devotees who offered prayers in an atmosphere of deep reverence. Families observed the unique Watuk Pooja, a ritual where symbolic representations of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati are worshipped. This tradition, deeply rooted in Kashmiri culture, highlights the spiritual connection of the community with its heritage.
Given the large crowds and the heightened enthusiasm surrounding the celebrations, security measures were significantly strengthened across the region. Local authorities and police officials were deployed at key locations to ensure a safe and peaceful observance of the festival. Their presence reassured devotees and facilitated a smooth execution of religious activities without any disruptions.
Maha Shivratri in Jammu was not just a religious observance but a grand celebration of faith, unity, and community service. It brought together people from all walks of life, reinforcing the spiritual richness of the region. The collective prayers, cultural festivities, and acts of devotion reflected the deep-rooted reverence for Lord Shiva, creating an environment filled with divine grace and joy. The festival served as a reminder of the enduring spiritual legacy of the land, inspiring devotees to embrace the values of devotion, humility, and inner peace.