DH NEWS SERVICE
JAMMU, Feb 23
The historic Panjvaktra Mahadev Mandir, one of the oldest Shiva temples in Jammu, is set to host the grand Maha Shivratri Mahotsav 2025 from February 24 to 26, 2025. Organized in collaboration with Directorate of Tourism, Jammu, and J&K Academy of Art, Culture & Languages, the three-day festival will bring together an array of spiritual and cultural programs.
Announcing the festival details in a press conference, Sh. Suresh Kumar Sharma, Retd. Sessions Judge & Receiver Panjvaktra Mahadev Mandir, along with Sh. Deepak Kumar eminent theatre personality, Yogesh Sharma, Anil Gupta, Pankaj Pradhan and Sanjiv Nirdosh, trade association representatives, and other prominent artists, highlighted the rich blend of tradition, devotion, and artistry that defines this Mahotsav.
Speaking on the occasion, Sh. Suresh Kumar Sharma said, “Maha Shivratri Mahotsav at Panjvaktra Mahadev Mandir is a deeply spiritual and culturally enriching experience. This sacred temple, with its ancient heritage and divine aura, has long been a beacon of faith and devotion for the people of Jammu. Through this festival, we strive to celebrate our rich traditions and provide devotees with a profound opportunity to connect with the divine presence of Lord Shiva.” We extend our heartfelt invitation to all devotees, artists, and cultural enthusiasts to be a part of this sacred Mahotsav. We also urge the media and community leaders to help spread the word so that maximum devotees can participate in this grand celebration of faith, devotion and heritage. Let us come together to make Maha Shivratri Mahotsav 2025 a truly memorable and divine experience. The festival will feature ritualistic Mahadev Abhishek, soulful bhajans, classical dance performances and traditional processions, offering devotees and visitors a deeply immersive experience.
The Mahotsav will commence with a Chetna Yatra of Bawa Kalibeer and local deities, starting from Panjvaktra Mahadev Mandir and covering prominent city locations before returning to the temple. The revered Dogra Band by Mohan Lal & Party and Karkan by Natha Ram & Party will accompany the procession, adding a divine & musical charm to the sacred event. Each evening, the temple will host bhajan performances by renowned artists such as Sh. Pankaj Pradhan, Dr. Roshi Shaminotra, Dr. Jasmeet Kour, and Dr. Rakesh Kalotra, accompanied by eminent instrumentalists on flute, rhythm, and violin. The festival will also celebrate India’s rich classical dance heritage, with Bharatanatyam performances by Neetika Aggarwal and Pallabi Dass Ghosh, and Kathak performances by Nrityanjali under Dr. Priya Dutta. A significant highlight of the Mahotsav will be the symbolic Shiv Vivah, performed by Jangams, marking the celestial union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. The festival will conclude on February 26 with traditional devotional music by Veer Bhan & Party and light bhajans by Milan Cultural Society, ensuring a blissful and divine culmination of the celebrations. Known as the “Rupaiye Wala Mandir,” Panjvaktra Mahadev Mandir holds immense spiritual significance, being home to a self-manifest Shiva Lingam (Aap Shambhu). The name “Panjvaktra” translates to “five-faced,” signifying the five forms of Lord Shiva – Rudra, Aghora, Vamdeva, Tat Purusha, and Ishana. These five aspects also represent the five Mahabhootas or elements. Legends associate the temple with visits from Adi Shankaracharya and Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji, further elevating its sacred status. As one of Jammu’s most revered festivals, Shivratri Mahotsav 2025 promises an unforgettable blend of spirituality, tradition, and cultural expression, inviting devotees from across the region to participate in this divine celebration.
