The vibrant celebrations of Mahashivratri 2025 are fast approaching, prompting heightened security measures and necessary regulations to accommodate the expected influx of devotees. This year, the festival will be celebrated on February 26, and officials across various regions are gearing up to manage crowds effectively and safely.
For the faithful who plan to participate, the Punjab and Haryana High Court recently made headlines by ordering the temporary opening of the main gates at Prachin Shiv Mandir in Chandigarh. This decision allows for the uninterrupted flow of devotees, as the gates had been sealed following an eviction order by the Chandigarh administration. The court approved the reopening under recommendations of military police who will supervise the crowd management during the festivities.
Justice Sureshwar Thakur and Justice Vikas Suri addressed concerns over crowd control, particularly noting the potential for stampedes due to narrow gates leading to the shrine. “It is only in the wake of the ensuing Maha Shivratri Festival...that thereby, for obviated any stampede...the width of the main temple gates is sufficient to...ensure the smooth flow of devotees,” they stated. This ruling ensures smooth processes from February 25 to March 2, culminating after the celebrations conclude.
Meanwhile, at the Shri Kartik Mahadev temple located in Khaggu Sarai, also known as the Bhasma Shankar Temple, officials are taking no chances. Given the temple's recent reopening after 46 years, substantial increases to security protocols are underway. District Magistrate Rajender Pensiya emphasized the importance of safety, foreseeing the arrival of 'kanwariyas'—devotees of Lord Shiva—who contribute to the significant rise in attendees during Mahashivratri.
The Kartik Mahadev temple, along with the Verani Shiv temple and the Sadat Badi Shiv temple, are expected to see some of the largest crowds, with officials already installing CCTV cameras and coordination of police patrols to manage the situation. “On the day of Mahashivratri and the following morning, medical teams will remain stationed at the sites,” added DM Pensiya, reinforcing the proactive measures taken by the local administration. A dedicated control room will also be set up to address any issues and concerns raised by devotees.
During the festivities, police teams will escort kanwariyas from entry to exit points to maintain law and order. Penultimate safety measures via police presence and administrative personnel at various temples ensures the safety and ease of access for all devotees. The move highlights the thoughtful preparations by authorities as they anticipate record attendance. The Shri Kartik Mahadev Temple’s reopening adds historical significance to this year's Mahashivratri, especially as it had remained locked for decades due to various circumstances, including associated tensions from previous violence during protests over court orders related to nearby sites.
Mahashivratri, known as the 'Great Night of Shiva,' is observed each year on the Chaturdashi Tithi during Krishna Paksha, which differs slightly across regional calendars. Devotees participate through fasting, night-long prayers, and visits to Shiva temples, seeking blessings and grace from Lord Shiva. This strong sense of devotion, combined with communal prayers and gatherings, cultivates an atmosphere of worship, unity, and reverence.
Overall, security measures being deployed this year reflect both the cultural importance of the festival and the commitment of local authorities to protect the well-being of participants. By balancing tradition with safety, they not only honor the significance of Lord Shiva but also strengthen community efforts to celebrate this cherished occasion.