Mahashivratri Greetings
By Dr Arvind Kumar
We cordially extend warm greetings to all on the auspicious and solemn occasion of Mahashivratri and seek blessings of Lord Shiva for all. This festive occasion reminds us to imbibe the spirit of sacrifice, compassion, kindness, peace and love towards all creatures. While imbibing these virtues in our daily life, we should also abandon some wrong notions associated with this sacred occasion – consumption of intoxicants – which some people think as a part of adoration of Lord Shiva. Even some Bollywood movies have tried to potray such wrong representation of Lord Shiva. The myths or legends associated with Lord Shiva justifying consumption of intoxicants should not be given credence.
Rather, we should take solemn pledge to avoid consumption of intoxicants which adversely affect human health. There is no religious justification or sanction behind such wrong assumptions. Besides, Lord Shiva’s love and care for snakes and ox (Nandi) indicates serious concern for the safety of animals. May Lord Shiva bestow all the blessings on you and bless you with good health, peace and prosperity.
