Kathmandu [Nepal], February 18
Nepal is getting high on Shivratri fervor with serpentine lines extending far and wide with devotees waiting for their turn to enter the main temple complex of the Pashupatinath Temple.
Falgun Krishna Chaturdashi-the fourth day of the waning moon in the month of Falgun is observed as Mahashivratri as per the lunar calendar. Thousands of devotees thronged the Hindu Pilgrim site Pashupatinath in Kathmandu.
The temple is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Govinda Sharan Upadhyay, a Vedic lecturer told ANI, “Lord Pashupatinath is also the swami of all the living beings. All the beings that live and die are considered as animals and the swami of them is ‘Pashupatinath’. On Shivratri, Lord Shiva is worshipped in six different time frames. During that time people perform Rudrabhishek, and Mahamritunjaya, chant hymns, give alms and perform the rituals on their own. Throughout the day people fast without having any food, some eat fruits and those with special conditions have edibles and come to the temple to worship Lord Pashupatinath.”
The day is regarded as Lord Shiva’s favourite day and is believed to bring happiness to the hearts of those living in difficulty. Fasting is observed by some on the day and the night is observed with a vigil (Jagram), celebrating Shiva.
People also make fire at home, on public squares and at temples, chant hymns and take prasad on the occasion. Classical dances are performed at Kailashkut and Kirateshwor of the Pashupati area in Kathmandu.
According to the Nepal Calendar Determination Committee, Brahma took the form of Shiva at the midnight of Krishna Chaturdashi of Falgun. So, this day is observed with prayers, pooja, and visits to Lord Shiva’s shrines. Hindus believe that the celebration of this day with prayers brings peace and prosperity to one’s life.
From early morning today, devotees take baths in rivers and ponds, visit Lord Shiva’s shrines and pay homage.
