Mahashivratri at Kalahasteeswara temple in Srikalahasti

Srikalahasti, Feb 16 (UNI) Mahashivratri was grandly celebrated at the famous Sri Kalahasteeswara Temple near Tirupati today.

Thousands of devotees offered prayers after a holy dip in Swarnamuki river near the temple since morning from surrounding villages and the neighbouring states of Tamil Nadu and Karnataka.

Kalahasteeswara Devasthanams Trust Board Chairman Kola Anand and Temple Executive Officer Narasimhamurthy also offered worship.

The temple is one of the 'pancha bhoota sthalams' (five elements), representing the element air. The temple is also associated with two of the 'navagrahas' - 'rahu' and 'ketu.' The name Srikalahasti is derived from 'Sri' (spider), 'Kala' (snake) and 'Hasti' (elephant). There are stories about their attaining salvation here.

Late in the night, after 'Nandi Seva' Lord Shiva would be taken in procession on 'Nandi Vahanam' around the four mada streets.

'Lingodbhava abhiskam' would later be performed to Lord Shiva.

On behalf of the government, Andhra Pradesh Endowment Department presented vestments 'pattu vastram' to the lord this morning.

On this auspicious occasion, devotees will fast and keep vigil throughout the night repeating the words 'Om Namasivaya.' Other festival days including car festival on February 17 and divine wedding on February 18.

UNI