MAHASHIVRATRI celebrated with traditional fervour

Ferozepur, March 11, 2013: Maha Shivratri was celebrated on Sunday by offering prayers to Lord Shiva and many fasted during the day. The Kawris, who brought the Gangajal from Haridwar on foot, were welcomed by the devotees of Shiva.

The temple premises reverberated with chants of “Jai Bhole Nath, Bam Bam Bhole” and devotional songs as thousands of devotees thronged the holy site of Hindus to mark the Mahashivaratri festival today. 

The festival celebrates the marriage of Lord Shiva to the Goddess Parvati, and holds immense importance in Hindu religion. 
Among the gods assigned importance in the Hindu religion, Shiva holds a special place for his role in both creation and destruction.

Large crowds began thronging Shiva temples in the city from early in the morning offering flowers, fruits, bel leaves and milk.

Devotees, elderly and children alike, were seen swaying to the tune of hymns to pay homage to Lord Shiva.

By early afternoon, many shops ran out of milk and devotees were feeling disappointed. However, they offered prayers to “Bhole Nath” (Lord Shiva) and “Shivling” was bathed with “Panchamrit”, which is made from milk, ghee, curd, honey and sugar.

The priests at the temples made “Prasad” from wheat flour, sugar, ghee and dry fruits alongwith fresh fruits for distribution to visitors.

As part of tradition, many people fast on Maha Shivratri or remain on a diet of fruits and milk.