Kathmandu, February 10 – Preparations are in full swing at the Pashupatinath Temple for the grand celebration of Maha Shivaratri on February 26, 2025. The Pashupati Area Development Trust (PADT) has commenced cleaning and beautification efforts in collaboration with various stakeholders.
Picture Credit: RoNB
Under the leadership of Dr. Milan Kumar Thapa, Member Secretary of PADT, the cleanup drive witnessed active participation from the Nepal Army, Nepal Police, Armed Police Force, PADT staff, local residents, and devotees. Dr. Thapa confirmed that the temple and its surroundings will be adorned with vibrant decorations, including fresh paint and artistic embellishments.
To further enhance the spiritual ambiance, PADT is working on creating stunning wall paintings of Hindu deities throughout the temple premises. These initiatives aim to enrich the religious and cultural experience for the millions of devotees expected to visit the holy site.
This year, an increased number of saints and sages are anticipated, particularly those traveling from the ongoing Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj, India. Ishwar Bhandari, Acting Head of the Cultural Conservation Division at PADT, mentioned that preparations are being adjusted accordingly to accommodate the influx of visitors.
The PADT’s Executive Council is set to convene early this week to finalize remaining arrangements. Maha Shivaratri, a significant festival for Hindus, draws millions of devotees annually from Nepal and India to honor Lord Shiva. This year, the festival falls on the auspicious day of Falgun 14 (February 26), as per the official Nepali calendar approved by the Nepal Panchanga Nirnayak Vikas Samiti.
With cleanup efforts already underway and additional plans in motion, Pashupatinath is preparing to welcome an unprecedented number of devotees and ensure a spiritually enriching experience for all.
