Patna: Patna is set to witness large-scale Mahashivratri celebrations on Sunday, with 30 religious processions scheduled to pass through the city and converge at the Khajpura Shiv Temple. Thousands of devotees are expected to gather across the capital, filling the streets with chants, devotional music and ceremonial displays to mark one of the most important festivals dedicated to Lord Shiva.
The processions, organised by the Shri Shri Mahashivratri Mahotsav Shobha Yatra Abhinandan Samiti, will begin from various neighbourhoods in the afternoon. Participants accompanied by traditional bands, decorative floats and religious symbols will move along designated routes before reaching Khajpura in the evening. The temple area is expected to become the centre of religious activity, drawing large crowds of worshippers and visitors.
Organisers said special arrangements have been made to accommodate the expected turnout. Devotees will be welcomed at multiple points along the routes, with 22 locations offering flower showers and refreshment stalls providing water and drinks. The temple premises and surrounding areas have been decorated with lights, festoons and LED displays to create a festive atmosphere.
Senior political leaders, including Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar, ministers and other public representatives, are expected to attend the main ceremony. Three stages have been set up at the venue, where religious rituals, devotional music, cultural performances and a Ganga Aarti will be held. Officials said the event will combine traditional worship with cultural programmes reflecting the region’s religious heritage.
One of the main attractions this year will be replicas of the 33-foot Shivling installed at the Virat Ramayan Temple, which will be featured in several tableaux. Organisers said these displays are expected to draw significant public attention and enhance the visual appeal of the processions.
Authorities have implemented extensive security and logistical measures ahead of the event. CCTV cameras have been installed around the main venue, and arrangements have been made to manage traffic, sanitation, electricity and water supply. Officials said crowd management plans have been strengthened in anticipation of higher attendance, as the city prepares for a day marked by faith, tradition and public participation.
