The Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu drew devotees in large numbers since early morning on the occasion of the Haritalika (Teej) festival on Tuesday.
During the festival, devotees throng temples dedicated to Lord Shiva across the country.
On this day, those who observe a fast without consuming even water perform worship of Lord Shiva from the morning.
While some observe the fast throughout the day worshiping Lord Shiva and break it in the evening, some break their fast only the next morning.
On the occasion of Teej, a grand celebration is underway at the Pashupatinath Temple premises in Kathmandu.
To facilitate the devotees, especially Hindu women, visiting Pashupatinath, all four gates of the temple were opened from 3 a.m.
Four queues were arranged to enter the temple from outside the Pashupati area. Inside the main temple, eight queues were arranged.
Even during the time of Shree Yantra Puja performed at the Pashupatinath Temple, arrangements were made to allow darshan from outside through a netting.
The festival falls on Bhadra Shukla Tritiya, or the third day of the bright fortnight in the month of Bhadra, according to the Hindu calendar. It is believed that worshiping Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati on this day brings peace and prosperity to one’s life.
According to Hindu scriptures, Goddess Parvati was accepted by Lord Shiva as his wife after fasting and remaining austere for many years. So, married women fast on this day praying for their husband’s long life while unmarried women fast praying for a husband like Lord Shiva.
