Nepal, Feb. 26 -- Mahashivaratri, known as the 'Great night of Lord Shiva', is a significant Hindu festival dedicated to Shiva, one of the principal deities in Hinduism. Devotees observe the night by staying awake, lighting oil lamps, praying, worshipping, and meditating, especially in the Pashupatinath temple area, as a mark of reverence for Lord Shiva.

On this sacred occasion, Shiva temples nationwide are filled with worshippers. Thousands of Hindu pilgrims, including ascetics known as sadhus, travel from Nepal, India, and other parts of the world to pay homage to Pashupatinath. This revered temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is one of the most significant Hindu temples recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The name Pashupatinath ...