Maha Shivratri Overcomes Darkness And Ignorance

Hindus around the country celebrated Maha Shivratri at their homes and temples yesterday.

Maha Shivratri is a Hindu festival celebrated annually in honour of Lord Shiva.

It is a major festival in Hinduism and marks the remembrance of “overcoming darkness and ignorance” in life and the world.

It is observed by remembering Lord Shiva and chanting prayers, fasting and meditating on ethics and virtues such as self-restraint, honesty, non-injury to others, forgiveness and the discovery of Lord Shiva.

Shree Sanatan Dharam Shiv Mandir Temple located on Rewa Street, Samabula, Suva, was filled throughout the day with many Hindu devotees praying to Lord Shiva on the auspicious day.

Temple priest Pundit Vijendra Mishra said Lord Shiva taught devotees how to live and prosper.

“People should follow what the holy books have told us,” he said.

“God’s devotion is pure and true devotion in this world that gives you peace.

“If you do not have love and devotion for God, then you cannot pray with a pure heart to him.

“Devotion is what connects you to God. Trust in God builds love and devotion for God.

“God is connected to us through our devotion and love and hence how he showers his blessings upon us. Our culture is drifting away.

“Most people in prayer sessions are either on their mobile or asleep, then who will be awake to devote their time and heart to God.

“Social media and other aspects of interest have taken over. “Technology is there to use wisely. If you use it wisely, then you will have time to devote your interest to God as well.

“But if you misuse it, then you will see the consequences of it too. “Parents have the duty to teach their children about the culture, God and the importance of it,” Pundit Mishra said.

Edited by Susana Tuilau

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