Kathmandu witnessed a spiritual extravaganza as Maha Shivratri drew colossal crowds to Pashupatinath Temple on Sunday. This jewel of Shiva worship, a UNESCO gem akin to India’s grandest shrines, brimmed with devotees from dawn till dusk.
Pilgrims lined up early, facilitated by 2 a.m. gate openings. By late morning, 100,000 had completed rituals, per PADT head Shubhas Chandra Joshi, who foresaw 700,000 total visitors, heavily featuring Indian faithful.
The temple grounds thrummed with activity—chants filling the air, sadhus in penance, and 3,000-plus ascetics, including 150 Naga sadhus, pursuing enlightenment. Comprehensive amenities ensured their well-being.
PADT’s proactive strategies on security, health, and sanitation maintained order amid the deluge.
Maha Shivratri at Pashupatinath stands as a beacon of collective piety, where borders dissolve in the face of shared reverence for the destroyer and creator.