File photo: Spiritual leader Sri Sri Ravi Shankar
NEW DELHI: On the auspicious occasion of Mahashivratri, spiritual leader Sri Sri Ravi Shankar emphasised the importance of inner reflection and devotion as integral to the sacred tradition of Shiva worship in India.Speaking to news agency ANI, Ravi Shankar urged people to engage in deep meditation, chanting and puja to elevate their spiritual practice on the holy day.
‘Go deep within and forget all worries’
Highlighting the spiritual significance of the festival, he said, “From Rameshwaram to Kedarnath, Amarnath, Shiva stuti or Shiva devotion is so prevalent in this country for millions of years, and today is a special day where people go deep within and forget about all other worries… and focus on the devotional aspect of life.”Referring to Somnath, he added, “After one thousand years, the real pieces of Somnath, the real Jyotirlinga of Somnath ji is here. It is a big luck for everyone to witness that. Spend more time in meditation, chanting, and puja. All these activities will uplift our spirit”.Mahashivratri is observed across India with deep reverence, with devotees undertaking fasts, offering prayers and participating in night-long vigils dedicated to Lord Shiva.
PM Modi, Rajnath Singh extend greetings
Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended greetings to citizens on the occasion, praying for their well-being and prosperity.In a post on X, he wrote, “To all my family members across the country, countless best wishes on Mahashivratri. My prayer is that Adidev Mahadev always keep his grace upon everyone. By His blessings, may all be blessed with well-being and may our Bharatvarsh sit enthroned at the peak of prosperity”.
Defence minister Rajnath Singh also conveyed his greetings. He is in Coimbatore to participate in the Mahashivratri festivities at the Isha Yoga Centre later in the day.Taking to X, Singh wrote, “On the auspicious occasion of Mahashivratri, I extend my heartfelt greetings to everyone. Today, I shall be at Isha Yoga Center in Coimbatore to attend the ‘Maha Shivratri’ celebrations. Looking forward to it”.Mahashivratri marks the divine union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.The Shiva-Shakti union is considered the epitome of love, power and togetherness, and the festival commemorating their sacred bond is celebrated with devotion and enthusiasm across the country.
