Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Feb 26: The festival of Maha Shivratri was celebrated today with deep religious zeal and traditional fervor across the Jammu and Kashmir Union Territory.
Devotees from various regions flocked to numerous Shiv Temples throughout the day, beginning in the early hours, to pay their respects on this significant occasion of Mahashivratri.
In Jammu City, a remarkable influx of devotees was observed at Ranbireshwar Temple near Shalimar Chowk, Aap Shambhu Temple in Roop Nagar, and Peerkho. Additionally, Raghunath Mandir and other Lord Shiva temples also experienced heavy crowds.
Devotees offered water, flowers, Bel leaves, milk, curd, and other offerings to the sacred ‘Shivlingam’. Special arrangements were made for all-night prayers in the temples, with numerous devotees observing fasts while partaking in the night-long prayers.
In a festive spirit, community langars were organized by individuals, groups, and religious organizations across the city, particularly near the temples, providing food and snacks to passersby.
Despite extensive security measures to facilitate smooth and trouble-free celebrations, significant traffic congestion was reported on various roads leading to the prominent temples.
Dr. Farooq Abdullah, president of the National Conference and former Chief Minister, visited Ranbireshwar Temple with some party members to pay respects and help serve the Bhandara. He engaged with other devotees, sharing greetings on Mahashivratri. Various notable leaders from Jammu were also seen visiting the temples and offering prayers to Lord Shiva, as well as extending good wishes to the public.
The Shiv Khori Shrine in Reasi district welcomed thousands of devotees on this auspicious day of Mahashivratri. In addition to offering prayers, attendees enjoyed local delicacies at food stalls set up along the path to the temple.
Reports from Srinagar indicated that many devotees visited the historic Shankaracharya Temple to pray during Mahashivratri, celebrated locally as “Herath”.
Despite the cold and wet weather, long lines of worshippers were present at the temple, which was adorned beautifully for the festival. The devotees enthusiastically chanted hymns and performed rituals, showcasing their devotion to Lord Shiva.
