Thousands Flock to Pashupatinath Temple on Last Monday of Shrawan

Thousands of Nepali Hindu devotees thronged Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu on the last Monday of Shrawan. This month is dedicated to Lord Shiva, and many observe fasting. Devotees, especially women, believe fasting brings prosperity and the ideal life partner. Attendance peaked at over 115,000 individuals.

Thousands of Nepali Hindu devotees flocked to the Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu today, marking the last Monday of the holy month of Shrawan. Records from the Pashupati Development Trust show that about 115,000 devotees visited the temple from 4 am to 12 pm local time. All four doors of the main temple complex were opened to facilitate ease of worship.

Monday, known as 'Sombaar' in Devanagiri, derives from the Sanskrit 'Soma', meaning Lord Shiva, and 'baar,' meaning day. The month of Shrawan, the fourth month according to the lunar calendar, is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is considered even more auspicious when there are five Mondays in Shrawan. Additionally, this month begins a series of festivals that continue for seven months until Maghe Sankranti. Fasting on Mondays during Shrawan signifies devotion to Lord Shiva and is believed to cleanse the soul and revitalize the body.

"The month of Shrawan is ending, and I have kept fast every Monday," said devotee Prashamsha Khadka. "Today, the last Monday of this holy month, is very special for me. Fasting on Mondays of Shrawan is believed to bring a good husband and prosperity to the family." Though anyone can keep the fast, it is most popular among women, especially unmarried ones. It is believed to help unmarried women find their preferred life partner, while married women fast for the prosperity, peace, and well-being of their families. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Shiva drank poison during the ocean churning (Samundra Manthan) this month. Goddess Parvati, who fasted, was believed to have gained Lord Shiva as her husband.

The chanting of "Om Namah Shivaya" is said to generate positive vibes. This five-syllable chant is the most used in Lord Shiva's worship, though some devotees also recite the Mahamrityunjay chant.

(With inputs from agencies.)