Many Nepali Hindus are observing the Mahashivaratri festival by offering prayer to and worshiping Lord Shiva today, on Fagun Krishna Chaturdashi (the fourth day of the waning moon in the month of Phagun), as per the lunar calendar.
According to the Nepal Calendar Determination Committee, Brahma took the form of Shiva at the midnight of Krishna Chaturdashi of Fagun. So this day is observed with prayers, pooja, and visits to Lord Shiva's shrines. Hindus believe that the observation of the Mahashivaratri brings peace and prosperity to one's life.
From early morning today, devotees take baths in rivers and ponds, visit Lord Shiva's shrines, and pay homage.
The day is regarded as the favorite day of Lord Shiva, who is believed to bring happiness to the hearts of those living in difficulty.
Some observe fasting on the day and the night is observed with a vigil (jagram), celebrating Shiva.
People also make fire at home, on public squares, and at temples, chant hymns, and take prasad on occasion.
Classical dances are performed at Kailashkut and Kirateshwor of the Pashupati area in Kathmandu.
The Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu is thronged by devotees from across the country and neighboring India.
Meanwhile, Pashupati Area Development Trust (PADT) has made special arrangements to facilitate the visitors, its member-secretary Dr. Milan Kumar Thapa shared. All four gates of the temple would remain open from 3:00 am on Saturday.
There will be three major queues outside and five inside for devotees to wait for their turn to reach the main temple. ---
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