Amid overflowing enthusiasm, processions, colours and chantings of ‘Har Har Mahadev’, city celebrated one of the key festivals Mahashivratri on Thursday.

long queues of devotees were formed in front of lord Shiva temples from early morning. The faithful observed day long fasts, poured ‘Bel’ leaves and milk on idols of lord Shiva in several temples in the city.

While several religious committees in the city took out ‘marriage procession’ of lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, temples were decorated with lights and flowers. Arrangements for prasad and milk were also made. Free meals were also served at many spots in the city by local committees, individuals and temple administrations.

A special pooja at midnight was organised at Boodheshwar temple in the city which is located near Boodha Talaab. The Shivlinga was adorned with leaves of ‘Bel’ tree. After the pooja, the temple was closed for a few hours. “The temple reopened at 5 am and will remain open for the devotees till 5 am next morning,” said temple priest Mahesh Pandey.

Shivratri is the night when lord Shiva is said to have performed the dance of primordial creation, preservation and destruction. Many devotees fast during this period, which they believe grants them immunity from the sins committed with or without their knowledge.

Devotees of all ages perform the traditional pooja in front of Shivalinga and hope for favours from the God of destruction.A three-day function was organised at Kali Mata temple near Phool chowk in the city on the occasion of Mahashivratri. The function will conclude on Friday and organised bhajans sessions and free meals for the devotees.

Famous Shiva temple located near Handi Talaab in the city also held a procession for the devotees. Elaborate decoration of Shivalinga and arrangements of pooja were made. Devotees in large numbers also flocked at Banjari Mandir on Bilaspur Road and Mahadev Ghat in the city.