Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his heartfelt greetings to the nation on the occasion of Mahashivratri, wishing for the prosperity, happiness, and good health of all citizens.
Taking to X, PM Modi wrote, “I wish all my countrymen a very happy Mahashivratri, a festival dedicated to Lord Shiva. May this divine occasion bring happiness, prosperity, and good health to all of you, and also strengthen the resolve for a developed India. Har Har Mahadev!”
Union Home Minister Amit Shah also shared his wishes, emphasizing the spiritual significance of the festival. “Heartiest greetings to all countrymen on the holy festival of Mahashivratri. This festival of the union of Shiva and Shakti is a great festival of spirituality, introspection, and faith. I pray to Devadhidev Mahadev for the welfare of all,” Shah posted on X.
Joining the chorus of wishes, Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh expressed his hopes for the nation’s well-being. “Best wishes to all of you on the holy festival of Mahashivratri! May Mahadev increase happiness, prosperity, and health in the life of all of you. Jai Bholenath!” Singh wrote on X.
Meanwhile, devotees from across the country gathered in massive numbers at the Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj for the final ‘Amrit Snan’ of the Maha Kumbh. This sacred bathing ritual, believed to wash away sins and grant spiritual merit, took place on the auspicious occasion of Mahashivratri.
The first Amrit Snan began on Paush Purnima on January 13, followed by subsequent Snans on Makar Sankranti on January 14, Mauni Amavasya on January 29, Basant Panchami on February 3, Maghi Purnima on February 12, and concluded with the final snan on February 26, coinciding with Mahashivratri.
Mahashivratri, known as the great night of Shiva, holds deep spiritual significance, symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance. The festival also marks the divine marriage of Lord Shiva, the lord of destruction, with Goddess Parvati, the goddess of fertility, love, and power, known as Shakti.
According to Hindu mythology, on their wedding night, Lord Shiva made his way to Goddess Parvati’s house accompanied by a diverse entourage of gods, goddesses, animals, and mystical beings. Their sacred union is celebrated across India with immense devotion, reflecting the ideals of love, strength, and harmony.
The festivities saw thousands of devotees participating in rituals, prayers, and traditional celebrations, underscoring the cultural and spiritual importance of Mahashivratri in India.
