Patna: Bihar is awash in devotion as it celebrates Mahashivratri. Since 3 a.m., devotees have thronged Mahavir Mandir at Patna Junction, Baba Biteshwarnath temple in Bihta, enduring long queues for a glimpse of Lord Shiva. Similar scenes of fervent worship are being witnessed at Sonepur’s Baba Hariharnath Temple, Gopalganj’s Balkhandeshwar Mahadev temple and other Shivalayas.
The festivities in Patna will reach a crescendo with the procession of 31 tableaux. Thousands of devotees will participate in the procession, which will commence at 3 p.m. and culminate at Khajpura Shiva temple by 5 p.m. A grand reception and cultural program await the procession at the temple.
Governor Arif Mohammad Khan, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, Deputy CM Samrat Chaudhary, Vijay Kumar Sinha, and other ministers will participate in the main Mahashivratri program at 7 p.m., welcoming the processions and performing aarti of the tableaux.
Three stages have been erected near Khajpura Shiva Temple, including a 60-foot main stage for dignitaries and the honoring of tableau committees. A second stage will host Bhajan Sandhya, Tandava dance, and other cultural performances, while the third stage will be dedicated to a special Ganga Aarti.
Given the expected large crowds, the administration has deployed magistrates and police personnel at 76 key locations. District Magistrate Dr. Chandrashekhar Singh stated that the entire program will be monitored via CCTV cameras and drones, with videography at public places to ensure law and order.
To address any emergencies, medicines and ambulances have been stationed at the district control room near Khajpura Shiva temple. The Patna Civil Surgeon has been directed to ensure medical teams are prepared for any eventuality.
The State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) has been deployed at major Ganga ghats to ensure devotee safety. Teams comprising two soldiers and two divers are on alert at 14 ghats, including Gandhi Ghat, Collectorate Ghat, Digha Pataliputra Ghat, Gaighat, Mahavir Ghat, Kagan Ghat, and Nasriganj Ghat.
