March 07: The Panjvaktra Mahadev Temple continued its Maha Shivratri Mahotsav with a vibrant celebration on the second day.
Organized by the Panjvaktra Mahadev Temple Committee in collaboration with the Department of Tourism, Jammu, and J&K Academy of Art, Culture, and Languages, the event showcased a rich tapestry of traditional and cultural brilliance, attracting devotees and enthusiasts alike. On this auspicious day, thousands of people thronged the temple seeking the blessings of Lord Shiva.
The day’s festivities commenced with the mesmerizing Traditional Folk Dance by Usha Rani & Party and the enchanting Karkan presented by Ramesh Kumar & Party, bringing the rich cultural heritage to life. The melodious tunes of Traditional Folk Singing by Sudesh Manhas & Party, followed by the Jattar by Lok Nath & Party, resonated through the temple premises, enhancing the spiritual ambiance.
As the evening unfolded, soulful Bhajans by Dr. Rakesh Kalotra and Dr. Roshi Shaminotra, accompanied by the harmonious ensemble of Ashutosh Sharma on Harmonium, Parshotam Kumar on Pakhawaj, Prabhat Bali on Tabla, and Rakesh Anand on Flute, filled the air with devotional fervor. The thriving Bharatnatyam performance by Pallabi Das Ghosh added further richness to the cultural festivities.
Various stalls set up by different departments, including Handloom, Handicrafts, and NRLM, showcased the region’s rich cultural heritage and economic potential. Local food stalls offered a delectable array of traditional dishes, providing a unique culinary experience for visitors.
The day concluded with a grand Maha Aarti, followed by the distribution of prasad, marking the spiritual culmination of the day’s events.
Known for its intricate architecture and beautiful marble carvings, Panjvaktra Mahadev Temple houses a five-faced idol of Lord Shiva in the main sanctum sanctorum, a rare sight. Other shrines within the temple include those dedicated to Goddess Parvati, Lord Ganesha, and Lord Hanuman.
Suresh Kumar Sharma, Retired Session Judge and Receiver of Panjvaktra Mahadev Temple, extended a warm welcome to visitors for the final day of the Mahotsav, offering a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the spirit of Maha Shivratri.
