Maha Shivaratri Celebrated Nationwide with Devotion, Large Crowds at Pashupatinath

On the occasion of Falgun Krishna Chaturdashi, the festival of Maha Shivaratri is being celebrated across the country today with devotion and reverence. According to religious tradition, since the Chaturdashi lunar day falls at midnight, devotees observe fasts, offer prayers, and worship Lord Shiva, resulting in large crowds at Shiva temples nationwide.

The largest gathering has been seen at Pashupatinath Temple. Since early morning, devotees, saints, and pilgrims have filled the temple premises, and thousands of worshippers have also arrived from neighboring India.

Religious belief holds that observing a fast, staying awake throughout the night, and offering milk, bel leaves, and dhatura to Lord Shiva on this day brings peace, prosperity, and salvation.

On the occasion of Maha Shivaratri, all four gates of Pashupatinath Temple were opened at 2 a.m. Special arrangements have been made for visitors, including three outer queues and one inner queue. Parking facilities have been arranged at Sifal, Tilganga, Guhyeshwari, and other designated areas.

Since three years ago, the use of cannabis, bhang, dhatura, and other intoxicating substances has been prohibited within the Pashupati area.

Along with Pashupatinath, large numbers of devotees have gathered at Gokarneshwor Temple, Doleshwor Mahadev Temple, and other Shiva temples throughout the Kathmandu Valley. Shiva temples outside the capital are also witnessing grand worship and celebrations.