Maha Shivaratri was celebrated with great spiritual fervour across India as thousands of devotees thronged Shiva temples to offer prayers and observe night-long rituals. The sacred festival, dedicated to Lord Shiva, witnessed special poojas, abhishekams, and devotional chanting from evening until early morning.
Devotees observed strict fasting and participated in the traditional four-kaala poojas conducted through the night. Temples were beautifully decorated, and special arrangements were made to accommodate the large crowds. Chanting of “Om Namah Shivaya” echoed through temple premises as devotees engaged in prayers and meditation.
Sacred rituals included abhishekam with milk, curd, honey, tender coconut water, and holy ash. Bilva leaves were offered to the Shiva Lingam, a practice considered highly auspicious on this day. Many devotees maintained vigil throughout the night, symbolising spiritual awakening and devotion.
The festival was celebrated not only in Tamil Nadu but also at prominent Shiva temples across the country, including the revered 12 Jyotirlinga shrines. Temple authorities ensured smooth conduct of rituals and distribution of prasadam to devotees.