Kerala's Majestic Mahashivratri: Devotees Unite in Spiritual Fervor

Thousands of devotees gathered at Shiva temples across Kerala to celebrate Mahashivratri. Major temples prepared extensively for the influx, offering special prayers and rituals. The Aluva banks hosted 'Balitharppanam', while Chenkal temple saw rituals like 'samooha ponkala'. Authorities ensured smooth operations with crowd management and enhanced safety measures.

Thousands of devotees thronged Shiva temples across Kerala on Sunday to celebrate Mahashivratri, a festival revered for its spiritual significance. Major temples observed massive crowds since early hours, prompting authorities to make extensive arrangements.

At the Aluva Mahadeva Temple, faithful gathered on the Periyar riverbanks to partake in the 'Balitharppanam' ritual, a crucial rite performed in memory of ancestors. Meanwhile, the Chenkal Maheswaram Shiva Parvathi Temple witnessed 'samooha ponkala', another significant ceremonial act. Efforts were bolstered through temporary platforms and additional priests to accommodate the worshippers.

To manage the throng, temple authorities and devaswom boards established crowd management systems, additional offerings counters, and enhanced lighting. Police maintained order around key shrines to ensure safety and traffic regulation. Devotees, undeterred by age or gender, engaged in day-long fasts, night vigil prayers, and cultural programs, embodying the festival's vibrant spirit.

(With inputs from agencies.)