Mahashivratri: Worship of Lord Shiva and Festival Enthusiasm

The festival of Mahashivratri is being celebrated with great enthusiasm across the country today by performing ritualistic worship of Lord Shiva. On this occasion, large crowds of devotees have gathered at Pashupatinath and other Shiva temples throughout the nation. 

Mahashivratri is regarded as the most beloved day of Lord Shiva, known as 'Ashutosh,' who brings the dawn of righteousness into the hearts of those in pain and distress.

Devotees purify themselves to worship at Shiva temples and observe a fast on Mahashivratri, which is considered the best among all fasts. On this day, milk, datura, and wood apple leaves (Belpatra) are offered as favorites of Lord Shiva. 

There is a religious belief that by fasting and staying awake all night during Mahashivratri, one attains all perfections and avoids the realm of Yamaloka after death. 

Due to the popular belief that Lord Mahadev feels cold on this day, bonfires are lit in every house, courtyard, and temple using wood collected for the occasion, and prasad is prepared and consumed over the fire amidst the singing of hymns.

Meanwhile, the Pashupatinath Area Development Trust has arranged four lines for the convenience of devotees coming to the fair in the Pashupatinath area. Considering the pressure of pilgrims, all four doors of Pashupatinath were opened at two o'clock in the morning. 

On the occasion of Mahashivratri, a large number of devotees from various parts of Nepal as well as from neighboring India come to visit Pashupatinath.