Varanasi’s majestic Naga sadhu procession
A grand early morning procession led by naga sadhus and akharas made its way to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, chanting 'Har Har Mahadev'. (PTI photo)
Holy dip in Ganga before procession
Before heading towards the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, the sadhus took a sacred dip in the Ganges at Dashashwamedh Ghat, symbolizing purification and spiritual awakening. (PTI photo)
Special darshan at Kashi Vishwanath Temple
Upon reaching the temple, the sadhus were given special darshan, where they performed Rudrabhishek with sacred offerings of milk, honey, and bel leaves to Lord Shiva. (PTI photo)
Who is Naga Sadhu?
Naga Sadhus are ascetic Hindu monks associated with Shaivism, known for their extreme renunciation of worldly life. They are mostly part of Akhadas (monastic orders) and follow rigorous spiritual practices, including intense meditation, celibacy, and detachment from material possessions. (PTI photo)
Royal chariot leading the procession
The procession was led by a decorated chariot carrying the Mahamandaleshwar of the akhara, followed by groups of sadhus singing bhajans and reciting Vedic hymns. (PTI photo)
Celebration of Shiva & Parvati’s divine union
Mahashivratri marks the sacred marriage of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, symbolizing the balance of masculine and feminine energies in the universe.
Massive influx of devotees at Kashi Vishwanath Temple
On Mahashivratri, lakhs of devotees throng Kashi Vishwanath Temple, forming long queues for darshan, with the city witnessing an electrifying spiritual atmosphere, grand processions, and continuous chants of ‘Har Har Mahadev’ throughout the night. (PTI photo)
Cosmic Dance of Lord Shiva (Tandava)
It is believed that on Shivratri, Lord Shiva performs the Tandava, the cosmic dance of creation, preservation, and destruction, representing the eternal cycle of life. (PTI photo)