Women throng Shiva temples in Patna

PATNA: Devotees thronged Shiva temples in different parts of the city as the holy month of Shravan began on Wednesday. Clad in traditional attire, women were seen offering flowers and fruits to Lord Shiva.
Temples in areas like Jagdeo Path, Boring Road and Kadamkuan had been chock-a-block with devotees since morning hours.
Every Monday of Shravan holds special significance as devotees observe fast and pray for the long life of their husbands.
“According to Hindu mythology, ‘Samudra Manthan’ or the churning of the ocean happened in the month of Shravan. Of the 14 rubies, which emerged during the process, 13 were divided among the ‘devas’ and the ‘asuras’. The last one, also known as the poisonous ‘Halahal’, was consumed by Lord Shiva in order to save the world,” city-based priest Gyan Pandey told this newspaper.
Many women and young girls visit Shiva temples during the month of Shravan. “I offer milk to Lord Shiva and also chant the ‘Shiva Chalisa’,” said Kadamkuan resident Pritee Prasad.
The annual Shravani Mela also began on Wednesday. Lakhs of devotees are set to visit Deoghar, one of the most sanctified abodes of Lord Shiva.
“I have been visiting Deoghar for the last 30 years. I have noticed that the number of devotees has risen with each passing year,” said another Kadamkuan resident Uma Shankar Prasad.