Deoghar, Feb 25 (NationPress) "Deoghar Biraje Gaura Saath, Baba Bholanath", a hymn crafted by the esteemed Bhavpreet Anand Ojha, eloquently praises the magnificence of Baba Baidyanath. Nestled in Deoghar, Jharkhand, the Baba Baidyanath Dham, also referred to as Kamanaling and Hridayapeeth, stands as a revered and lively destination.

The essence of Baba Baidyanath is unparalleled; his followers receive divine blessings through steadfast devotion, where every wish is fulfilled. The devotees of Deoghar's Kamanaling genuinely comprehend this divine favor.

On Mahashivaratri, Deoghar witnesses magnificent religious festivities, centering around Lord Shiva, in both his manifested and unmanifested forms.

The ‘Chatushprahar’ puja, a distinctive ritual performed on Mahashivaratri, is uniquely celebrated in this region. Deoghar symbolizes not merely a place of worship, but a rich spiritual legacy.

This location is where it is believed that the heart of Mata Sati fell, and Shiva is enshrined as the lingam.

For this reason, it is known as Atmaling and Kamanaling. The importance of Baba Baidyanath Dham is also celebrated in the Dwadash Jyotirlinga Stotra.

Deoghar transcends being just a city; it embodies a culture where the saying, "Whosoever has Baba Bholenath, how can they be orphaned?" resonates among the people.

Every event, festival, and even the ups and downs of life are dedicated to Baba. The onset of Mahashivaratri fills the people of Deoghar with overwhelming happiness.

During this period, various unique religious customs and traditions are observed, immersing everyone in devotion towards Lord Shiva. The entire city of Deoghar is splendidly adorned for Mahashivaratri.

The Shiva procession (Shiv Barat) involves participation from all sections of society – from children to elders, men, women, and even deities. People travel from afar, considering it a privilege to partake in this grand celebration.

Prabhakar Shandilya, the chief priest of Baba Baidyanath Dham, elaborates on the deity's significance, stating: "The deity here, Mahadev Shiva, is Atmaling. Baba Baidyanath Dham is a site where both Mahadev Shiva and Mata Shakti coexist. When Lord Vishnu disassembled the body of Mata Sati, her heart landed here in Deoghar. This very spot is where Lord Vishnu established Baba Baidyanath. Here, the union of Shiva and Shakti occurs, which is why all temples in this region bear the 'Panchshul' – two 'Shul' symbolize Shakti, representing her support to Mahadev, and the Trishul signifies Baba."

Concerning Kamanaling, Prabhakar Shandilya further adds: "Baba remains in meditation most of the time and is not always awake. However, Sati is perpetually vigilant, and when Baba returns from meditation, Mata informs him of the people's wishes. This is why Deoghar holds utmost significance. Among the twelve Jyotirlingas, Baba Baidyanath is the sole location where the union of Shiva and Parvati occurs. It fulfills all desires. Baba prefers a ritual bath with water, while Mata enjoys being adorned and united. 'Wherever the omnipresent Maheshwar resides,' it is said that when you pray from any corner of the globe, Baba Baidyanath will heed your request."

Regarding the rituals of Mahashivaratri, Shandilya explains: "In Deoghar, the Chatushprahar Puja is observed, where sindoor (vermilion) is presented to Baba, symbolizing the completion of Shiva’s marriage. During this occasion, Baba is adorned with a peacock crown, particularly for unmarried individuals, as it aids in overcoming marriage obstacles. On Mahashivaratri, Baba is not adorned in the usual manner; instead, worship continues throughout the night, symbolizing Lord Shiva's marriage. Preceding Mahashivaratri, the Panchshul is unveiled and placed on the temple spires. The chief priest conducts the initial union, after which devotees are invited to partake in it."

Thus, Deoghar’s Mahashivaratri is not merely a celebration of divine reverence, but a cultural and spiritual manifestation that unites traditions, rituals, and the everlasting bond between Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.