The spirit of ‘Shiva Bhakti’ gripped Madhya Pradesh on Sunday as the State celebrated Mahashivratri with unprecedented enthusiasm. From the historic streets of Old City in Bhopal to holy banks of Shipra in Ujjain, the atmosphere was thick with the scent of incense, resonance of bells and collective chanting of ‘Har-Har Mahadev’ and ‘Jai Mahakal’. The day was marked by record-breaking crowds, intricate ritualistic offerings, and grand processions that turned the region into a vibrant serenity of faith and culture. Ujjain: A ‘Jan-Sailab’ of 4 lakh devotees at Mahakal The holy city of Ujjain became the epicenter of the global celebration, witnessing a massive “Jan-Sailab” (public surge) as nearly 4 lakh devotees converged upon the Mahakaleshwar Temple. The administrative machinery worked around the clock to ensure the safety and comfort of the pilgrims. Under the direct supervision of Collector Roshan Kumar Singh and Superintendent of Police (SP) Pradeep Sharma, the complex flow of devotees was managed with military precision.

 

The rituals began in the early hours with the world-famous Bhasmaarti, where the deity was adorned with sacred ash. Throughout the day, a continuous stream of devotees seek blessings of the god. During the worship lord Shiva was offered a mixture of milk, curd (dahi), ghee, honey, and water (panchamrit). The piles of Bel-patra and Dhatura offered by the faithful reached heights reflecting the sheer volume of visitors. The “Char Pahar” puja commenced in the late hours of Sunday. Bhopal’s aesthetic splendor: Flowers, lights and ice The capital city, Bhopal, was no less vibrant. Every “Shivlaya” and neighborhood temple was beautifully decorated with elaborate floral arrangements and strings of festive lights. The city’s landmarks, including the Mansarovar Temple, the historic Bhojpur Temple, and the Kubeshwar Dham, Bidla Temple saw an overwhelming influx of pilgrims from early morning. A standout feature of this year’s celebration was the creative ingenuity seen at several locations. At the Gautam Nagar Shiv Mandir, a magnificent Shivalinga made entirely of ice became the primary attraction.

 

Thousands waited for hours to catch a glimpse of the “Baraf ka Mahadev,” which was intricately decorated with traditional facial features and a star-shaped backdrop. A similar ritual took place at the Piplani Chauraha, where the local community gathered for a grand abhishek of an ice Shivling, accompanied by Vedic chants. Grand ‘Shiva Baraat’: A journey through the heart of the city. The highlight for the residents of the Old City was the traditional “Shiva Baraat”—the ceremonial wedding procession of Lord Shiva. The procession of “Baba Bateshwar” was a visual spectacle, featuring massive tableaux and vibrant cultural troupes. Shobhayatra started with high energy, passing through the bustling Sindhi Market and Janakpuri Hanumanganj. As the procession moved through Mangalwara, the Transport Area, and Itwara, the air was filled with the rhythmic beats of Damru troupes and the melodic strains of the police band. The route continued through Chintaman Chauraha, Ganesh Chowk, Sawarkar Chowk, and Lakherapura, with the streets lined with locals showering petals on the deity’s chariot.

 

The grand journey finally reached the Ma Bhawani Mandir at Ma Bhawani Chowk, where the divine marriage was completed with full Vedic rites amidst a sea of cheering devotees. Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav and Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Shivraj Singh Chouhan visited the ancient Badwale Mahadev Temple, where they joined the citizens in prayer. After performing a ritualistic abhishek, the Chief Minister took part in a symbolic act of devotion by personally pulling the chariot of the Shiva Baraat. He was joined by several public representatives, including Member of Parliament Alok Sharma, Mayor Malti Rai, and MLA Bhagwandas Sabnani. Parallel to the religious rituals, the city showcased its spirit of Seva (service). ‘Bhandaras’ were organised at various locations, including a prominent one at the Hoshangabad Road Chauraha. Thousands were served khichdi prasad and refreshments, ensuring that the pilgrims remained energised in their journey. In the township of Bairagarh (Sant Hirdaram Nagar), the community celebrated with equal fervor, organizing local processions and feasts lasting late evening.