Maha Shivaratri

Maha Shivaratri is a Hindu festival celebrated annually in honor of Lord Shiva. It is believed to mark the night when Shiva performed the Tandava dance, and also the night he was married to Goddess Parvati. According to the Hindu (lunar) calendar, Maha Shivaratri falls on the 14th day of the dark (waning) fortnight in the month of Magha. In the Gregorian calendar, this usually corresponds to late February or March.

On this day, devotees observe fasts, maintain overnight vigils, and chant “Om Namah Shivaya.” It is believed that on this night, the stars in the Northern Hemisphere are in optimal alignment to enhance spiritual energy, and the divine principle of Shiva is especially active.

Each year, devotees from across Nepal and India visit Shiva temples. In Kathmandu, Pashupatinath Temple becomes extremely crowded. Many foreign tourists also visit, drawn by the vibrant atmosphere. Ascetic sadhus, sometimes semi-naked, are commonly seen meditating, interacting with devotees, or posing for photographs.