Kathmandu: Thousands Flock to Pashupatinath Temple for 'Shrawan Sombar'

Kathmandu (Nepal): Thousands of Hindu devotees flocked to Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu to observe "Shrawan Sombar," the Monday of the Nepali month Shrawan dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Sacred Observance

The month of Shrawan is considered sacred by Hindu devotees and is dedicated to Lord Shiva, during which females keep fasts while adorning green, yellow, and red bangles and beads.

Devotional Practices
During this month, particularly on Mondays, devotees of all ages and genders visit the Shiva temple to worship the Lord. It is believed that an unmarried girl who fasts every Monday of the month will find the husband of her choice. Married women, on the other hand, keep the fast for the health and prosperity of their husbands and family members.

Personal Experience
"I came to Pashupatinath in the early morning and stood in line to enter the temple for about half an hour. Today, we worship Lord Shiva wholeheartedly, praying for the well-being and good health of our husbands, children, and other family members. We also fast on Mondays of Shrawan; this year there are only four Mondays in Shrawan, whereas last year there were five. While worshipping Lord Shiva, we offer cannabis, dhaturo, and milk to please him, as these are his favourite offerings. We pray for the fulfilment of our wishes, the well-being of our children, and the long life of our husbands," said Suhana Karki, a devotee, to ANI.

Rituals and Beliefs
In Shrawan, unmarried females fast and participate in processions praying for a good husband, while married females fast for the longevity of their husbands and the wellness of family members. According to religious belief, wishes are fulfilled, and Lord Shiva will shower fortune on those who visit shrines dedicated to him and pay homage after taking an early morning shower on the first Monday of Shrawan.

Historical Significance
Enlisted as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, Pashupati Temple holds significant importance for Hindu followers, as Lord Shiva is regarded as the creator, destructor, and preserver of the world. Beyond its religious importance, the Pashupatinath Temple is also seen as a saviour of Nepal in times of difficulty.

Global Pilgrimage
A large number of pilgrims from India and other countries visit Pashupatinath once in their lives. Besides Pashupati, other Shiva temples or Shivalayas in Kathmandu also witnessed a surge of devotees on this day dedicated to Lord Shiva.

(With ANI inputs)