Maha Shivaratri

Maha Shivaratri

Friday,
February 21,
Maha Shivaratri 2020 in Nepal

Maha Shivaratri is a Hindu festival celebrated in Nepal and India. In this article, we are going to discuss Maha Shivaratri, its significance and how this festival is being mistaken by youths.

Maha Shivaratri marks the marriage of Lord Shiva (Hindu God) and is observed every year in the month of Falgun according to the lunar calendar and in February/ March according to the Gregorian calendar. It usually falls before the arrival of the Summer season in Nepal. Maha Shivaratri is also called "The Great Night of Shiva". It is also believed that during this particular night, Lord Shiva performs 'Taandav' the cosmic dance of creation, preservation, and destruction.

Maha Shivaratri is celebrated to remark the memory of "overcoming darkness and ignorance" in life and the world. Lord Shiva is the main deity of this festival and devotees offer prayers and chants to impress him. People visit Shiva temple for blessings, happiness, prosperity, and long life. Devotees chant 'Aum Namah Shivaya' (the sacred Shiva Mantra) and other names of Lord Shiva throughout the day.

Devotees awake whole night during this festival and sing Bhajans, Chants, Hymns for Lord Shiva. Hindus from all over the world visit the greatest pilgrimage site "Pashupatinath Temple, Nepal" to worship the shrine of Lord Shiva. "Pashupatinath" is another name for Lord Shiva. This temple is situated at Gaushala in Kathmandu, Nepal. Over a million of devotees including saints, sages, priests, and Aghoris visit Pashupatinath Temple in this auspicious day "Shivaratri". 

People install positive vibes within their soul and the temple environment is highly religious with fumes of incense, Lakh Battis, Sounds of Prayers, bells, the fragrance of Camphor, fruits, and flowers, decorated with (Bel Paati) Marmelos leaf, Vermillion paste, Betal leaves, etc. Bonfires are set at venues to warm Lord Shiva. This temple is also listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. 

One serious impact of this festival is that youths during this festival involve themselves in taking Marijuana/ Weed smoking. People are found spending money on buying Bhang, Marijuana, Dhturo, and spending on gambling. We also hear about robberies and thefts during this festival as places are crowded and irrational people commit this heinous crime. 

In fact, this festival should have been celebrated in a pleasant manner not to exaggerate but to enjoy.

Authored by Girish Regmi for Hamro Library