Lucknow, Feb 26 – Devotees flocked to Shiva temples across Uttar Pradesh in overwhelming numbers to offer prayers on the auspicious occasion of Mahashivratri. From Varanasi to Gorakhpur, cities across the state witnessed grand celebrations marked by religious processions, rituals, and spiritual fervor.
In Varanasi, the revered Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple became the focal point of celebrations. A grand early morning procession, led by naga sadhus and members of various akharas, made its way to the temple. The Mahamandaleshwar of the akharas rode atop a royal chariot, while sadhus carrying tridents, maces, and swords performed the sacred jalabhishek, chanting "Har Har Mahadev". The temple, adorned with elaborate floral and lighting decorations from Tuesday evening, witnessed an unprecedented rush of devotees.
Vishwa Bhushan Mishra, CEO of Kashi Vishwanath Dham, assured that comprehensive arrangements, including barricading and water facilities, had been implemented to ensure a smooth darshan experience. The temple remained open throughout the night to accommodate the surge of visitors.
In Gorakhpur, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath led prayers at Shakti Mandir in Gorakshapeeth, performing rudrabhishek under the guidance of priests and Vedpathi Brahmins. The rituals continued with a havan and aarti. Addressing reporters, Adityanath extended his Mahashivratri greetings to the people, emphasizing Lord Shiva’s role as the supreme benefactor. "This unwavering faith is a symbol of India’s unity, and I bow to this devotion," he remarked.
The sacred Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj saw thousands of devotees taking a holy dip, marking the culmination of the ongoing Maha Kumbh. Meanwhile, prayers at the Kartikeya Mahadev Temple in Sambhal carried special significance as the temple reopened after 46 years. It had remained closed since the 1978 riots, and its reopening drew large crowds from across the region, eager to offer kanwar and perform jalabhishek.
In Aligarh, the Siddhpeeth Khereshwar Dham Mahadev Temple witnessed a massive gathering of kanwariyas and devotees, chanting "Om Namah Shivay". Authorities ensured smooth access to the temple, given the high footfall. Similarly, temples in Raebareli saw long queues of worshippers offering prayers, while in Kanpur, the Baba Anandeshwar Temple—revered as the "Choti Kashi of Kanpur"—saw lakhs of devotees making offerings of Ganga water and bel leaves.
Lucknow, the state capital, mirrored the devotion seen across Uttar Pradesh, with thousands gathering at Shiva temples from the early hours of the day.
The grand celebrations highlighted the deep spiritual connection of devotees with Mahashivratri, reinforcing the festival’s significance in uniting faith and devotion across the state.
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