Varanasi Becomes 'Mini Maha Kumbh' as Naga Sadhus Arrive for Maha Shivratri
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Synopsis
Varanasi is bustling with spiritual energy as Naga Sadhus arrive ahead of Maha Shivratri. The Juna Akhara has set up camp at Hanuman Ghat, drawing thousands of devotees for the sacred rituals and the grand procession.
Key Takeaways
- The city of Varanasi is preparing for Maha Shivratri.
- Naga Sadhus from the Panchdashnam Juna Akhara have arrived.
- Hanuman Ghat is a key location for their rituals.
- A significant influx of devotees is expected.
- The sacred journey includes a visit to Kashi Vishwanath Temple.
Varanasi, Feb 11 (NationPress) The ancient city of Varanasi is experiencing a spiritual resurgence as it gears up to welcome a multitude of Naga Sadhus and saints in anticipation of Maha Shivratri. After participating in the Prayagraj Mahakumbh, these esteemed saints, especially those from the Panchdashnam Juna Akhara, have now settled into vibrant camps along the banks of the Ganga.
The Juna Akhara, one of the leading monastic sects of Naga Sadhus, has established its presence at Hanuman Ghat in Varanasi, where the atmosphere resonates with the sounds of chanting, drums, and sacred mantras. The sadhus believe that the ritual bath at the Kumbh is deemed incomplete unless followed by a visit to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. Consequently, a significant surge of saints and devotees has flocked to Varanasi to complete this holy journey.
“After the sacred dip in the Kumbh, it is crucial for us to visit Baba Vishwanath to honor our spiritual commitments,” expressed Mahant Ujjaingiri, a notable Naga Baba.
“Kashi is the abode of Baba Vishwanath, and we will remain here until Holi, preparing ourselves for the grand procession during Maha Shivratri. Every Naga Sadhu, irrespective of being from Uttarakhand or Girnar, must partake in the Shiv Baraat and immerse in the divine energy of this locale.”
The atmosphere surrounding the ghats is charged with the presence of thousands of sadhus who have set up their tents along the sacred banks of the Ganga. As Maha Shivratri nears, excitement mounts, with preparations underway for the grand royal bath that will occur in the presence of the saints, marking the spiritual pinnacle of the event.
One Naga Sadhu remarked, “Varanasi is a place unlike any other. It serves as the Moksha ka Dwar (gateway to liberation). We will be here until Holi, continuing our prayers and readiness for the grand Shivratri procession. No pilgrimage is deemed complete without a visit to Kashi Vishwanath. This is the essence of our faith.”
Maha Shivratri is a Hindu festival observed annually in reverence to the deity Shiva, occurring between February and March. According to the Hindu calendar, the celebration takes place on the fourteenth day of the initial half of the lunar month of Phalguna.
