Devotees throng Pashupatinath Temple in Nepal to celebrate Shivaratri

Feb 19, 2023

Kathmandu (Nepal), Feb 18 (ANI): Nepal is getting high on Shivratri fervour 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 the Kathmandu. The temple is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 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. 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, 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. Apart from the devotees, hundreds of Sadhus from various parts of Nepal and India have arrived at the Pashupatinath Temple. They've camped at various locations around the temple, setting up the bonfire and smoking weeds.