COIMBATORE: The Maha Shivratri celebrations at the Isha Foundation this year radiated devotion and energy, drawing attention from political leaders and celebrities alike. Union Home Minister Amit Shah graced the event, sharing the spotlight with prominent personalities and emphasizing the importance of spirituality at such gatherings.
Addressing the audience, Amit Shah expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to be part of the celebration led by Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev. "I bow down at the feet of 'Aadiyogi'. I feel fortunate to be here at the invitation of Sadguru ji. Today, the entire country is filled with Shiva's presence," Shah stated. He linked the event to other significant religious gatherings, stating, "Today, the Maha Kumbh is concluding in Prayagraj, and here, I am witnessing the Maha Kumbh of devotion."
This year's celebrations were characterized by their 'Kailash' theme, enhancing the visual and emotional experience of participants. The atmosphere was vibrant with worship, yoga, and meditation, embodying the spirit of Maha Shivratri through night-long performances. Celebrities like actors Vijay Verma and Tanisha Mukherjee, along with former football star Baichung Bhutia and bodybuilder Sangram Chougule, joined thousands of devotees for this grand affair.
Shah not only attended the festivities but also participated by performing rituals alongside the attendees. During the event, he shared insights from his discussions with Sadhguru, highlighting the cultural and philosophical dimensions of Shiva worship. "Maha Shivratri is not just a festival; it embodies the essence of Indian spirituality and culture, focusing on meditation, self-control, and energy balance," he remarked.
Radhya Jaggi, Sadhguru's daughter, shared her perspective on the growing magnitude of the Maha Shivratri celebration, noting, "Each year, the observance becomes more grand. This year's celebrations reflect the increasing interest and participation from people across the globe. It's wonderful to see such enthusiasm for yoga and spirituality, reinforcing our cultural heritage."
With music and dance performances throughout the night, the event attracted families and individuals eager to engage with the rituals of Shiva. Participants are encouraged to immerse themselves fully, fostering community and connection with divinity through the night of Maha Shivratri. Well-known artists were also invited to perform, adding to the festivities and cultural richness.
The live streams of the event allowed enthusiasts worldwide to participate virtually, marking another step toward inclusive spirituality. Ahmed Shah affirmed the importance of such outreach by praising the Isha Foundation's extensive efforts to create inclusive and accessible celebrations.
Even as the rituals unfolded, Shah did not shy away from addressing political issues, critiquing the Tamil Nadu government's performance on matters like funding and delimitation during his earlier gatherings. “The Tamil Nadu government provided security during the last worldly jaunt of the mastermind behind the 1998 bomb blast—SA Basha,” he said, highlighting perceived injustices.
Despite the political discourse, the heart of the Maha Shivratri celebrations was richly focused on collective worship and dedication to Shiva. Participants spent the night engaged in chanting, yoga, and devotional activities, encapsulating the spirit of the night.
Overall, this year's Maha Shivratri at Isha Foundation proved to be not just another religious observance but also a unifying cultural event, merging politics with spirituality, and artistically celebrating the essence of devotion.