An ashram in South 24-Parganas celebrated Shivratri with the holy water from the Mahakumbh in Uttar Pradesh.
Sri Ramakrishna Ashram in Palpara, Usti of South 24-Parganas organised the puja, where hundreds gathered to offer their devotion. The use of water from Mahakumbh increased the sanctity of the rituals, which symbolised purification and divine grace.
Subhas Kumar Jana, the secretary of the Sri Ramakrishna Ashram, said: “The Shiva Puja was organised with the holy water from the Mahakumbh. The temple premise was filled with Vedic chants, rudrabhishekam and devotional songs. The devotees observed fast, meditated and maintained night-long vigil.” The fragrance of incense, oil lamps and the rhythmic beats of damaru (mini-drum) heightened the divine atmosphere.
Shivaratri is the revered festival dedicated to Lord Shiva and was celebrated with immense devotion this year.