Tens of Thousands of Naga Sadhus and Devotees Gather at Kashi Vishwanath for Maha Shivratri
Click to start listening
Synopsis
On February 26, Varanasi saw a massive gathering of Naga Sadhus and devotees at Kashi Vishwanath Temple for Maha Shivratri. With elaborate processions and police deployment, this significant Hindu festival celebrates Lord Shiva's divine essence.
Key Takeaways
- Tens of thousands gathered at Kashi Vishwanath Temple.
- Police and drone surveillance ensured safety.
- The protocol darshan system was paused for three days.
- Shiv Baraat procession scheduled for 8 pm on February 26.
- Maha Shivratri symbolizes the divine marriage of Shiva and Parvati.
Varanasi, Feb 26 (NationPress) Tens of thousands of Naga Sadhus, saints, and devotees have assembled at the esteemed Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi to pay homage to Lord Shiva during the auspicious event of Maha Shivratri.
The ancient city is alive with grand processions, heartfelt devotional chants, and a profound sense of spiritual energy as followers honor one of the most important festivals in Hinduism.
To manage the large crowds and ensure safety, around 2,000 police personnel have been stationed throughout the temple area and nearby locations.
Drone surveillance is also being utilized to oversee the flow of devotees and uphold security. Officials have assured that the administration is thoroughly prepared to handle the significant influx of worshippers and prevent any unforeseen incidents.
The arrival of the esteemed akhadas at Kashi Vishwanath Temple was celebrated with a grand reception, as Naga Sadhus and their supporters were showered with flower petals.
The procession of the akharas has started, led by Juna Panch Dashnam Pithadhishwar Swami Avdheshanand Giri on a beautifully adorned chariot towards the temple.
The narrow streets of Kashi are bustling with vibrancy as Naga Sadhus joyfully celebrate the festival with fervor and dedication. Showcasing their martial skills, they make their way to the temple amidst the rhythmic drumming, chanting sacred verses, and seeking Lord Shiva's blessings on this holy day.
Due to the vast crowd anticipated during Maha Shivratri, the protocol darshan system at Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple has been temporarily paused for three days, from February 25 to February 27.
The temple trust made this decision to accommodate the large number of devotees and ensure uninterrupted darshan and puja rituals for revered saints, sadhus, and Naga Sadhus.
The much-awaited Shiv Baraat tradition will proceed this year in Varanasi as planned. The Shiv Baraat Committee confirmed that the grand procession will begin from its designated route at 8 pm on February 26.
Earlier, considering the massive influx of devotees traveling to Varanasi after the Maha Kumbh, the committee had contemplated holding the procession on February 27. However, after some discussions, a consensus was reached to carry forward the Baraat on Maha Shivratri itself.
As Maha Shivratri is celebrated nationwide, Kashi Vishwanath Temple opened its doors to devotees at 3:30 am on February 26 following the sacred Mangala Aarti.
A deeply rooted belief surrounding Maha Shivratri is that it symbolizes the divine union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. However, scholars note that this event is not referenced in ancient texts, including the Shiva Purana.
The Shiva Purana explains that the Shivling first appeared on the fourteenth day of the Shukla Paksha in the month of Falgun, known as Chaturdashi Tithi. On this day, Lord Vishnu and Lord Brahma worshipped the Shivling, establishing it as a sacred occasion recognized as Shivratri.
