Babas at Pashupatinath Temple in ShivaRatri

My friend was leaving for Australia today from Tribhuvan International Airport and I was struggling to catch him at the airport in the morning. I left home in hurry but all the roads in that area were blocked for facilitating the devotees, who have come to the capital city from all around the country and even from India. I missed my friend but the scene was worth it. One of the busiest, if not the busiest road of Kathmandu was on a halt. There were hardly any vehicle and the street was crowded with people all moving toward the pious place. And there were not just old people who find it an occasion to get out of their houses. There was an equal participation from young people as well.

There are various customs related with MahaShivaRatri. Local kids block roads in their neighborhood with ropes and collect "festival tax" from the people passing by. Many people all around the country consume ganja dhaturo and other natural intoxicating matters to celebrate the birthday of their favorite god. In fact, it is believed that these natural herbs where the favorite diets of the almighty himself that is the reasons why his disciples - the "babas" are seen all around Pashupatinath temple pumping clouds of cannabis. Many foreigners also take good advantage of the liberal occasion. Lots of people, especially women stay awake the whole night, praying and recalling the deeds of Lord Shiva.

Shiva is worshipped as the symbol of power and destruction. Royal Nepalese Army also celebrates ShivaRatri as the "Army Day", with a grand function at Tundikhel.They invite the royalties, high ranked officials and foreign guests for a well prepared parade and other entertaining shows. They also offer a cannon salute in honor of the auspicious day. Almost all corners of the parade ground fence are filled with common spectators.

Home of the Lord Celebrates posted by Pradeep Chand @ 11:25 PM

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