Devotees celebrated Maha Shivratri with traditional fervour and enthusiasm in different parts of the Kumaon division on Tuesday. People accompanied by their children kept thronging the temples of lord Shiva along with other temples to offer obeisance to the deity since wee hours on Tuesday. The State Government declared this day a public holiday to enable people to observe the day without hindrance.
Notably, the devotees also observed fast on the occasion of Maha Shivratri. “Despite stupendous changes occurring in the outer realm of our life, the Hindus are still devoted to their pantheon of gods. lord Shiva and Maha Shivaratri would never cease receiving obeisance from them as Shiva lords over the cosmos, holding the key of its creation and destruction. Shiva Ratri being observed with such vim and vigour proves the invincibility of our culture,” said Mahesh Nath a devotee from Haldwani.
Meanwhile, in a bid to avert any untoward incident, Nainital district police made tight security arrangements around the major temple complexes and other busy places. Maha Shivratri went off peacefully in the region. No any untoward incident was reported from any part of the region. Mitrajan Kalyan Sevasamiti also organised a Shivmatosav on Tuesday to mark Maha Shivratri. A variety of cultural shows, including Kumaoni Chholia dance, were organised to mark the occasion. Among others State Cabinet Ministers Indira Haridayesh and Harish Durgapal were also present.