Mahashivratri, which translates to "the Great Night of Shiva," is a Hindu festival celebrated across South Asia, primarily in countries like India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and parts of Southeast Asia. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva, one of the principal deities in Hinduism.
Mahashivratri in the southern states of India is celebrated with great pomp and religious fervour. From the 14km barefoot walk at Tamil Nadu's Annamalaiyar temple to special pujas in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, people immerse themselves in the devotion of Lord Shiva on this day.
In Kashmir Shaivism, Mahashivratri is celebrated by the Hindus of Kashmir and is called, "Herath" in Kashmiri. Devotees also visit the major Jyotirlinga Shiva temples in Varanasi and Somnath on this day.
Mahashivratri is a national holiday in Nepal and is celebrated widely in temples across the country, especially in the Pashupatinath temple. Thousands of devotees visit the famous Shiva Shakti Peetham nearby as well.
Another major temple where Mahashivratri is celebrated is the Shree Ratneshwar Mahadev Temple in Karachi where the festival is attended by 25,000 people. On the night of Mahashivratri, Hindus in Karachi fast and visit the temple.
Within Indo-Caribbean communities, thousands of Hindus observe this auspicious night in more than 400 temples spanning various countries. Additionally, in Mauritius, Hindus embark on pilgrimages to Ganga Talao, a crater lake of great significance.