Guyanese, especially Hindus, are observing Maha Shivratri today. Maha Shivratri is observed every year on Chaturdasi in the dark half of the Hindu month of Phalgun. This year, the Hindu world observes this sacred day on Monday, March 7th. It is the night specially consecrated for Bhagwan Shiva’s worship.
The important features of this religious function are fasting, chanting and vigil during the night. Maha Shiva Ratri, according to the Maha Shiva Puran was decreed by Lord Shiva himself. It is seen as a day for divesting all negative tendencies and worshipping Shiva for the removal of all hindrance to a blissful life.
From early in the morning Hindus will chant – OM NAMAH SHIVAYA the Panch Akshara or five letter mantra creating the atmosphere for contemplation and worship. Shiva who is truth, existence and beauty (Satyam. Shivam, Sundararm) will be propitiated and Puja done to Him in varying ways.
Scores of devotees from all across Guyana turned up this morning at the Cove and John Ashram on the East Coast of Demerara for Shivratri, and they will continue to visit the Ashram throughout the day, especially this evening.
Meanwhile, President of the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha Dr. Vindhya Persaud, also took the opportunity to wish the Hindu community a peaceful and spiritually uplifting Maha Shivratri and urges Hindus to attend their mandirs across the country with their families.
The Sabha said special satsangh conducted by Pandit Jagmohan Persaud will be held at Dharmic Rama Krishna Mandir in Barr street, Kitty at 18:00 hrs this evening; and Shri Krishna Mandir on Seaforth street at 19:00 hrs this evening. The Linga Puja will commence at 7:30 pm at Shri Krishna Mandir C/ville.
Following are photos taken from the Cove and John Ashram this morning:
