Vaishali: Thousands of devotees gathered in the eastern Indian state of Bihar as Hajipur’s historic Shiv Barat procession marked Mahashivratri with elaborate rituals, colourful tableaux and public celebration. The event’s focal point was Union minister of state for home affairs Nityanand Rai, who upheld a personal tradition spanning three decades by serving as the ceremonial charioteer.
The procession began at the revered Baba Pataleshwar Nath Temple, one of the city’s most prominent religious sites. From there, the Shiv Barat travelled approximately four kilometres through the streets of Hajipur, taking nearly eight hours to complete its route. Devotees from across Vaishali district and neighbouring areas lined the roads, creating a dense and festive atmosphere throughout the day.
At the head of the procession, Rai, dressed in traditional attire, drove a decorated bullock cart carrying the symbolic palanquin of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. He led chants of “Har Har Mahadev,” distributed prasad and interacted with devotees along the route. His participation reflects a longstanding personal commitment to the ritual, which he has maintained throughout his political career.
Rai said the tradition holds deep spiritual significance for him, describing it as both an expression of faith and a matter of honour. He has continued to take part in the ceremony despite holding various senior political roles, including legislator, member of parliament and now Union minister.
The Shiv Barat also featured hundreds of mythological tableaux, accompanied by traditional musicians, dancers and performers portraying figures associated with Hindu mythology. Elephants, horses and devotional music added to the spectacle, while clouds of coloured powder filled the air, transforming the city into a centre of religious celebration.
The annual procession remains one of Bihar’s most prominent cultural and religious events, drawing widespread participation and reflecting the enduring role of faith and tradition in public life.
