DH NEWS SERVICE
Jammu, Feb 24
The Maha Shivratri Mahotsav 2025 commenced today with deep spiritual devotion and cultural grandeur at Panjvaktra Mahadev Mandir, one of Jammu’s most revered Shiva temples.
The three-day festival opened with the Chetna Yatra of Baba Kalibeer and local deities, a significant religious and cultural procession. Starting from the temple, it passed through Rajinder Bazar, Shahidi Chowk, Residency Road, Raghunath Bazar, City Chowk, and Kanak Mandi before returning to the mandir. Devotees lined the streets, offering prayers as the Dogra Band by Mohan Lal & Party and Karkan by Sh. Natha Ram & Party added a traditional touch.
The temple was beautifully illuminated, with earthen lamps, floral decorations, and the resonance of bells and Vedic chants creating a truly divine atmosphere.
This year’s Mahotsav also saw the inauguration of a grand open-air stage within the temple premises, enhancing the scale of cultural performances. Speaking on the occasion, Sh. Suresh Kumar Sharma Receiver, Panjvaktra Mahadev Mandir expressed his delight at the growing scale of the festival. He stated, “This newly constructed stage will serve as a platform to showcase our rich spiritual and cultural heritage. It will not only enhance the Mahotsav’s grandeur but also encourage the younger generation to connect with our traditions.”
He further emphasized the role of artists in preserving cultural traditions, saying, “Artists breathe life into our traditions. Their dedication and artistry elevate this Mahotsav to a divine experience, blending devotion with creative expression.”
The new stage hosted a soulful evening of semi-classical bhajans by Pankaj Pradhan, Mohit Kashyap, and Master Krishna, with musical accompaniment from Rakesh Anand (Flute), Guru Parshotam Kumar (Pakhawaj), and Sr. Amarjeet Singh (Violin). A captivating Bharatnatyam performance by Neetika Aggarwal added to the cultural richness.
The first day concluded with Prasad Vitran, spreading divine blessings among devotees. The overwhelming participation highlighted the spiritual significance of Panjvaktra Mahadev Mandir, home to the self-manifested Aap Shambhu.
Organized in collaboration with the Directorate of Tourism, Jammu, and J&K Academy of Art, Culture & Languages, the Mahotsav continues with rituals, bhajans, classical performances, and the grand Shiv Vivah, inviting devotees to immerse in this sacred celebration.
