Maha Shivratri observed in the city

By our Staff Reporter

GUWAHATI, March 7: Along with rest of the state and the country, the devotees of Guwahati have observed the Maha Shivratri today with pomp and gaiety. Lakhs of devotees were seen worshipping Lord Shiva on this special day.

The devalayas and temples in the city like Sukreswar Mandir, Umanda Mandir, Basistha Devalaya, Lankeswar Mandir, and other temporary puja committees have started the puja of Lord Shiva from the morning today. The devotees also have worshipped the Lord Shiva by lighting earthen lamps and incense sticks and by offering Bael leaves, dhotura, milk, water and gunja in the temples and devalayas of the city since morning.

It is to be believed that the day of Maha Shivratri is the day when Lord Shiva was born to save the universe by drinking 'Haalaahala' and 'Gaaja' (the poison and drug) that emerged from the churning of the ocean (Samudra Mantha).  While most Hindu festivals are celebrated during the day, Shivaratri is celebrated during the night by keeping a 'Jaagaran' - a night-long vigil as it is believed that Lord Shiva saved the universe from darkness and ignorance. This day is also believed to be the day that Shiva was married to the Goddess Parvati, the Goddess of Shakti.  'Great Night of Shiva' also marks the convergence of Shiva and Shakti, the origin of the universe. Therefore, the devotees worshipped the Lord Shiva for his blessings in their lives. The Shivratri is also known for love and fulfilling of wish of the unmarried girls and boys who wish to get a groom and bride like Lord Shiva and Parvati, and so devotees worship in this special day. It is also believed that this day is the favourite day of Lord Shiva which also throws light on his greatness and the supremacy of Lord Shiva over all other Hindu Gods and Goddesses.  People therefore, worship the Lord to get his blessings on this special day.