By- Naiteek Bhatt
Mahashivratri, which translates to "the Great Night of Shiva", is a Hindu festival celebrated across South Asia, Primarily in countries like India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and parts of South Asia. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva, one of the principal deities in Hinduism.
Mahashivratri
Mahashivratri in the southern states of India is celebrated with great pomp and religious fervor. From the 14 KM barefoot walk at Tamil Nadu's Annamalaiyar temple to special pujas in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, people immerse themselves in the devotion of Lord Shiva on this day.
Southern India
In Kashmir Shaivism, Mahashivratri is celebrated by the Hindus of Kashmir and is called, "Herath" in Kashmiri. Devotees also visit the Major Jyotirlinga Shiva temples in Varanasi and Somnath on this day.
Northern India
Mahashivratri is a national holiday in Nepal and is celebrated widely in temples across the country, especially in the Pashupatinath temple. Thousands of devotees visit the famous Shiva Shakti Peetham nearby as well.
Nepal
Another major temple where Mahashivratri is celebrated is the Shree Ratneshwar Mahadev Temple in Karachi where the festival is attended by 25,000 people. On the night of Mahashivratri, Hindus in Karachi fast and visit the temple.
Pakistan
Within Indo-Caribean Communities, thousands of Hindus observe this auspicious night in more than 400 temples spanning various countries. Additionally, in Mauritius, Hindus embark on pilgrimages to Ganga Talao, a crater lake of great significance.
Beyond South Asia