Devotees Flock to Kerala Temples for Maha Shivaratri Celebrations

Thousands of devotees gathered at Shiva temples across Kerala for Maha Shivaratri, participating in rituals and prayers. Authorities organized extensive arrangements for the influx, with police ensuring safety. The festival featured traditional offerings and midnight celebrations, underscoring its cultural and religious significance in honor of Lord Shiva.

Thousands of devotees thronged Shiva temples throughout Kerala on Sunday to celebrate Maha Shivaratri, a major Hindu festival honoring Lord Shiva. From early morning, large crowds gathered at prominent shrines, including Sreekanteswaram Mahadeva Temple and Sree Vadakkunnathan Temple, to participate in prayer rituals and observances.

To manage the surging crowds, temple and local authorities organized extensive logistical arrangements. At the Aluva Mahadeva Temple, devotees performed 'balitharppanam,' an offering to ancestors, along the banks of the Periyar River. Makeshift platforms and other facilities were set up to accommodate the influx.

Security measures were tight, with hundreds of police personnel deployed to ensure safety and manage traffic around the temples. As devotees observed day-long fasts and prepared for night-long vigils, the cultural and religious significance of Maha Shivaratri was palpable across Kerala.

(With inputs from agencies.)