Mahashivratri 2025: One of the most important festivals for the devotees of Lord Shiva, Maha Shivaratri will be celebrated on February 26, 2025. Devotees eagerly wait for this auspicious occasion, as it is believed that when Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati were married. On this day, while worshiping Lord Shiva, it is said that he brings divine blessings and quickly wishes.
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Holy Panchkroshi Yatra:
On Maha Shivaratri, Shiva devotees performed the work of Panchkroshi Yatra, which is a spiritual pilgrimage with deep religious significance. But what is the history of this journey, and how is it associated with Lord Ram?
According to ancient beliefs, the tradition of Panchkroshi Yatra himself said in the dates of Tita Yuga launched by Lord Rama himself. The reason behind this journey is associated with an unfortunate incident in the Ramayana – when King Dasaratha, inadvertently, a dedicated son, who caused Shravan Kumar’s death, who took his blind parents on a pilgrimage. In his grief, Shravan Kumar’s parents cursed King Dasaratha, saying that he too would suffer unbearable pain of losing his son.
To free his father from this curse, Lord Rama undertook the Panchkroshi Yatra, which is now considered to bless the devotees with spiritual fulfillment and divine grace. Those who fulfill this holy journey, get them to get their desired desires and get rid of themselves from previous sins.
Panchkroshi Yatra in Ujjain and Varanasi:
The Panchkroshi Yatra is performed in two major Shiva cities – Ujjain and Varanasi.
- In Ujjain, the journey is performed during the month of Vaishkh, which includes five important Shiva temples – Pingleshwar, Kayawarohneshwar, Bilveshwar, Durdheshwar, and Neelkantheshwar. Devotees visit these temples to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva.
- In Kashi (Varanasi), the holy journey begins at Manikarnika Ghat, one of the holiest sites on the banks of the Ganges. On the night of Maha Shivaratri, the pilgrims start the journey at midnight and complete the spiritual circuit and visit Kardameshwar, Bhima Chandi, Rameshwar, Shivpur and Kapildhara before returning to Manikarnika Ghat.
[Disclaimer: The content of this article is based solely on beliefs, and should be taken as general guidance. Individual experiences may vary. ABPLive.com does not assert the accuracy or validity of any claims or information presented. It is strongly recommended to consult a qualified expert before considering or implementing any information or belief discussed herein.]
