Minister for Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation, Badri Prasad Pandey, has assured that extensive facilities will be provided for devotees visiting the Pashupati area during Mahashivaratri. After inspecting the preparations this morning, he stated that efforts are ongoing to ensure amenities for devotees arriving from various parts of the world to visit the Pashupatinath Temple.
He mentioned that work is being done to lay water pipes and manage other facilities in the Pashupati area to accommodate the large number of devotees expected during the festival. Minister Pandey emphasized the need for collaboration with government bodies and various social organizations to ensure successful preparations for Mahashivaratri.
Minister Pandey conducted an inspection of major preparation sites within the Pashupati area, including Ban Kali, Bhuvaneshwari, the sacred Ghats, Ram Mandir, Mrigasthali, and Vishwarup. During his visit, he assessed the ongoing work and emphasized the importance of timely completion. Recognizing that certain tasks might require additional time, he instructed the staff of the Pashupati Area Development Trust to ensure all necessary arrangements are finalized before Mahashivaratri.
To efficiently manage the grand festival’s preparations, a 201-member main ceremony committee has been formed under the leadership of Minister Pandey. This committee is responsible for overseeing and coordinating various activities to ensure a smooth and well-organized event.
Additionally, nine thematic subcommittees have been established to focus on specific aspects of the preparations. These subcommittees will handle key responsibilities, ensuring that every detail, from logistics to security and rituals, is meticulously planned and executed. The government’s proactive approach aims to enhance the experience of devotees and visitors during Mahashivaratri at Pashupatinath.
With thousands of pilgrims expected to gather at the sacred site, Minister Pandey’s directives highlight the commitment to maintaining order, cleanliness, and proper facilities. By mobilizing dedicated teams and ensuring a well-structured preparation process, the authorities are working to create a spiritually fulfilling and well-managed environment for all attendees.
The main committee and subcommittees are intensifying efforts, and the arrival of sadhus (holy men) in the Pashupati area has already begun. Arrangements for accommodation, food, and places to warm themselves have been made for the sadhus at various ashrams, including the Swargadwari Ashram.
This year, many devotees are expected to visit Pashupatinath after attending the ongoing Mahakumbh Mela in Prayag, India, during Mahashivaratri. The fund, along with various ashrams in the Pashupati area, will provide housing, food, and places for sadhus to warm themselves. After Mahashivaratri, it is a longstanding tradition for the fund and institutions to bid farewell to the sadhus with gifts, including cash donations.
