The captains of the Indian and Pakistani cricket teams, Suryakumar Yadav and Salman Ali Agha, on Sunday did not shake hands ahead of their group stage match
World

The captains of the Indian and Pakistani cricket teams, Suryakumar Yadav and Salman Ali Agha, on Sunday did not shake hands ahead of their group stage match during the men's Twenty20 World Cup in Sri Lanka's Colombo. During the Asia Cup in September too

Microsoft founder Bill Gates is set to visit Andhra Pradesh on Monday to discuss expanding cooperation in health and artificial intelligence initiatives with
World

Microsoft founder Bill Gates is set to visit Andhra Pradesh on Monday to discuss expanding cooperation in health and artificial intelligence initiatives with Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu. Gates will also observe the state's Real Time Governance System and witness the use of drones and AI in

Love has always been serious business. Why should its doorstep delivery be any different?<br><br>Swiggy Instamart registered a 10x growth in orders
Technology

Love has always been serious business. Why should its doorstep delivery be any different?Swiggy Instamart registered a 10x growth in orders for jewellery, greeting cards, and plush toys for Valentine's week, while Flipkart Minutes clocked a 7x year-on-year (YoY) increase in sales

French investigators are probing new leads in the Jeffrey Epstein case. They are re-examining the situation of modelling agent Jean-Luc Brunel
World

French investigators are probing new leads in the Jeffrey Epstein case. They are re-examining the situation of modelling agent Jean-Luc Brunel, who died in prison. New documents from the US Justice Department are being reviewed for connections to French citizens

You don't need to save huge amounts to begin your journey. Even setting aside a small amount regularly can build a strong habit. Saving Rs 100 a day may seem
Business

You don't need to save huge amounts to begin your journey. Even setting aside a small amount regularly can build a strong habit. Saving Rs 100 a day may seem insignificant, but over a year, it adds up to a meaningful amount. New Delhi: If you often find yourself wondering where your money

Mahashivratri is a civilizational festival: Arvind Kejriwal

Posted By: Aditya Gogoi Posted On: Feb 16, 2026Share Article
Mahashivratri is a civilizational festival

Mahashivratri is a civilizational festival rooted in ancient tradition: Arvind Kejriwal

Greeting people at the festival, the AAP Chief described Mahashivratri as a civilizational celebration rooted in India's ancient spiritual tradition and prayed that Lord Bholenath's grace always remain upon every citizen.

On the sacred occasion of Maha Shivratri, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) National Convener Arvind Kejriwal and Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann paid obeisance at the revered Sri Rankeshwar Mahadev Temple and performed Pooja at the historic Siddh Peeth, seeking blessings for peace, prosperity and continued progress for Punjab and the nation.

Greeting people at the festival, the AAP Chief described Mahashivratri as a civilizational celebration rooted in India's ancient spiritual tradition and prayed that Lord Bholenath's grace always remain upon every citizen.

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann reaffirmed that the Punjab Government remains firmly committed to preserving and promoting the state's rich spiritual and cultural heritage for future generations. He underscored that from commemorating the Shaheedi Diwas of Sri Guru Teg Bahadur ji to celebrating the Parkash Purab of Sri Guru Ravidass ji, Punjab continues to honour its glorious legacy with pride and devotion.

Add Zee News as a Preferred Source

Sharing a few snippets from the puja on X, AAP National Convenor Arvind Kejriwal stated: “On the sacred occasion of Maha Shivratri, I had the privilege of offering prayers at Shri Rankeshwar Mahadev Temple in Dhuri along with Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann. The divine energy of Mahadev brings peace to the mind and renewed strength to the spirit. May Lord Bholenath's blessings always remain upon all of you, and may the nation and Punjab continue to progress and prosper.”

Meanwhile, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated on X: “On the occasion of Maha Shivratri today, I paid obeisance and sought the blessings of Lord Shiva at Shri Rankeshwar Temple in village Ranike, constituency Dhuri, along with AAP National Convener Arvind Kejriwal and Punjab Incharge Manish Sisodia. I prayed for the prosperity of the nation, peace and harmony, and enduring brotherhood among all. May Lord Shiva's blessings always remain upon everyone.”

AAP National Convenor Arvind Kejriwal and CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “We paid obeisance at Sri Rankeshwar Mahadev temple and prayed for the peace, progress and prosperity of the state.” They further said, “On the auspicious occasion of Maha Shivratri, we performed Pooja at Siddh Peeth and extend our good wishes to all.” Highlighting the essence of the festival, they said, “Maha Shivratri inspires people to strive towards the pursuit of truth that leads to the ultimate consciousness epitomized by Lord Shiva.” They added, “The festival lays stress on the values of piety, devotion, mutual love and harmony.”

Emphasizing the cultural importance of the occasion, Arvind Kejriwal and CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “This is an important festival known as one of the cornerstones of the great Indian civilization.” They added, “Sri Rankeshwar Mahadev is regarded as a revered Siddh Peeth in the Malwa region of Punjab.” Explaining the spiritual legacy of such sites, they said, “Historically, Siddh Peeths are considered sacred places where intense penance and spiritual practices were performed, leading to divine manifestation.”

Arvind Kejriwal and CM Bhagwant Singh Mann further said, “Such places hold immense importance in our tradition because they are believed to be spiritually energized through centuries of devotion and tapasya.” They added, “This temple is traditionally associated with the Mahabharata period, particularly with Arjuna's penance to please Lord Shiva.” Elaborating further, they said, “It is believed that after severe tapasya, Lord Shiva appeared before Arjuna and blessed him with divine weapons, the Gandiv Dhanush.”

Linking the shrine to India's epic heritage, Arvind Kejriwal and CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “This connection links the shrine to one of India's greatest epics, giving it deep mythological and historical resonance.” They added, “Sri Ranakeshwar Mahadev represents this continuity of Shaivite devotion in the Malwa belt.” They further said, “This sacred place stands as a reminder that Punjab's cultural identity has been shaped by multiple layers of spiritual history.” Emphasizing the broader significance of the festival, they said, “Mahashivratri is not merely a religious observance but a civilizational festival rooted in ancient tradition.”

Arvind Kejriwal and CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “The festival commemorates the divine union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati and symbolizes spiritual awakening and self-discipline.” They added, “Celebrating Mahashivratri at such a historically significant Tapasthali reinforces the continuity of age-old customs and faith practices.” They further said, “Annual celebrations at Sri Ranakeshwar Mahadev help preserve it as a living heritage site rather than a forgotten monument of the past.”

Underscoring the cultural continuity of the shrine, Arvind Kejriwal and CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “This sacred place reflects centuries-old devotional practices that have been passed down from one generation to another.” They added, “The continuity of rituals demonstrates how faith traditions adapt over time while maintaining their core essence, and it is an important part of the region's intangible cultural heritage.” They further said, “Such events strengthen regional identity and social unity in the Malwa area and bring together people from different walks of life under a shared spiritual and cultural banner.”

Highlighting the state government's commitment towards preserving heritage, Arvind Kejriwal and Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “The state government is already working hard to perpetuate the glorious cultural heritage of the state amongst younger generations.” They added, “The state government has already commemorated the 350th martyrdom day of Sri Guru Teg Bahadur ji in an unsurpassed manner.” They further said, “It is now all set to celebrate the 650th parkash purab of Sri Guru Ravidass ji also in an unprecedented manner.” Concluding, they said, “The state government wants to ensure that our coming generations are made aware of the rich cultural heritage of the state.”

Comment on Post

Leave a comment

If you have a News Orbit 360 user account, your address will be used to display your profile picture.


The morning before he died, Dipu Chandra Das left home at first light, stepping out of his tin-sheet house in Bangladesh's Mymensingh city
World
Dragged out and set on fire

The morning before he died, Dipu Chandra Das left home at first light, stepping out of his tin-sheet house in Bangladesh's Mymensingh city, overlooking a warren of lanes off the highway from Dhaka. The 28-year-old woke up his father, said goodbye to his wife, cradled his 18-month-old daughter

Just now

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman sees India as a future AI leader, with 100M ChatGPT users. OpenAI expands in Delhi ahead of India AI Impact Summit 2026
Latest News
OpenAI CEO Sam Altman Signals Deeper India Ties Ahead Of Global AI Impact Summit 2026

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman sees India as a future AI leader, with 100M ChatGPT users. OpenAI expands in Delhi ahead of India AI Impact Summit 2026. In a strong endorsement of India's growing artificial intelligence ecosystem, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has described India as a potential “full-stack AI

Just now

London's busy streets are no stranger to food trends. But this time, it's not a new burger joint or a coffee pop-up grabbing attention. It's a tray of hot
Latest News
Goriya Devi

London's busy streets are no stranger to food trends. But this time, it's not a new burger joint or a coffee pop-up grabbing attention. It's a tray of hot, crispy Bihari samosas – and a cheerful voice calling out, “Samose Samose Bihari ke samose, Goriya ne parose

Just now

After US President Donald Trump oversaw the seizure of his Venezuelan counterpart Nicolás Maduro last month, he vowed to tap the country's oil reserves
Business
Trump has big plans for Venezuela's oil but are they feasible

After US President Donald Trump oversaw the seizure of his Venezuelan counterpart Nicolás Maduro last month, he vowed to tap the country's oil reserves – the world's largest. But for the US oil firms that Trump wants to go into Venezuela

Just now

A dull ache, a stubborn stiffness, and a shoulder that refuses to move, the frozen shoulder creeps in quietly, then takes over daily life for months
Latest News
Think It’s Just A Muscle Pull

A dull ache, a stubborn stiffness, and a shoulder that refuses to move, the frozen shoulder creeps in quietly, then takes over daily life for months, sometimes years. That ‘minor' discomfort often begins as a harmless shoulder pull while reaching for a cupboard or getting dressed

Just now

Ranbir Kapoor praises Sanjay Leela Bhansali as “the best director in the last four decades” while sharing updates on their upcoming film Love & War
Entertainment
Ranbir Kapoor hails Sanjay Leela Bhansali as

Ranbir Kapoor praises Sanjay Leela Bhansali as “the best director in the last four decades” while sharing updates on their upcoming film Love & War. New Delhi: Bollywood star Ranbir Kapoor has expressed admiration for acclaimed filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali

Just now

Special economic zones (SEZs) for data centres could accelerate growth assuring reliable power and streamlined approvals, industry executives and experts said
Technology
SEZs can up data centre growth via stable power

Special economic zones (SEZs) for data centres could accelerate growth assuring reliable power and streamlined approvals, industry executives and experts said.Experts said that while dedicated zones could help, power supply and streamlined approvals matter more than tax incentives

Just now

Weather Warning: Will it rain in Delhi? IMD issues alert for 11 states, dense fog in UP – Check forecast here weather today <strong>Weather
Latest News
Will it rain in Delhi

Weather Warning: Will it rain in Delhi? IMD issues alert for 11 states, dense fog in UP – Check forecast here weather today Weather Warning: Residents of Delhi and adjoining National Capital Region (NCR) are witnessing warmer days as winter cold is fading away

Just now

UAE's Crescent Group is investing $150 million in India. This move signals a broader trend of Gulf investors diversifying away from North America and Europe
World
Gulf funds, family offices find value in looking east

UAE's Crescent Group is investing $150 million in India. This move signals a broader trend of Gulf investors diversifying away from North America and Europe. India's strong economic fundamentals and growth potential are key drivers. Crescent Group will focus on consumer, pharma, manufacturing

Just now

<strong>PAN Card Digital Signature Online:</strong> Noticed an error in your PAN card details? Perhaps your name changed after marriage
Latest News
PAN card goes digital

PAN Card Digital Signature Online: Noticed an error in your PAN card details? Perhaps your name changed after marriage, you moved to a new address, your date of birth or mobile number needs correction, or you want to update your digital signature

Just now

<strong>India AI Impact Summit 2026:</strong> To prevent any service disruptions during keynote sessions and demonstrations
Technology
“Four-Way Protected Fibre”

India AI Impact Summit 2026: To prevent any service disruptions during keynote sessions and demonstrations, the provider has implemented a highly redundant hardware setup. India AI Impact Summit 2026: New Delhi is preparing to host the AI Impact Summit starting tomorrow, February 16

Just now

Australian telecom firm Telstra will chop off over 650 jobs as part of business restructuring, with some work to be outsourced with Indian IT company Infosys
Business
Australian Telecom Telstra To Cut 650+ Jobs

Australian telecom firm Telstra will chop off over 650 jobs as part of business restructuring, with some work to be outsourced with Indian IT company Infosys. According to ABC News, citing the company's emails to employees by CEO Vicki Brady

Just now

US President Donald Trump said Sunday that member states of his proposed “Board of Peace
World
Trump's Board Of Peace Pledges $5 Billion For Gaza Reconstruction

US President Donald Trump said Sunday that member states of his proposed “Board of Peace" have pledged more than $5 billion for reconstruction and humanitarian efforts in Gaza, as he pressed Hamas to proceed with “full and immediate" disarmament. In a post on his Truth Social platform

Just now

India's largest stock exchange, the National Stock Exchange of India (NSE), has encountered another hurdle in its decade-long bid to go public
Latest News
NSE’s Long-Awaited IPO May See Further Delay Amid Fresh Legal Hurdle

India's largest stock exchange, the National Stock Exchange of India (NSE), has encountered another hurdle in its decade-long bid to go public, with a fresh writ petition challenging regulatory clearance for its proposed initial public offering (IPO), The Economic Times (ET) reported

Just now

Ashish Vidyarthi backs India ahead of the Ind vs Pak T20 clash, praises Prosenjit Chatterjee on Padma Shri honor. Kolkata: Ashish Vidyarthi shared his thoughts
Life Style
Ashish Vidyarthi cheers for men in blue

Ashish Vidyarthi backs India ahead of the Ind vs Pak T20 clash, praises Prosenjit Chatterjee on Padma Shri honor. Kolkata: Ashish Vidyarthi shared his thoughts on the much-anticipated India vs Pakistan match in the ICC T20 World Cup at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo

Just now

India secured a commanding 61-run victory over Pakistan with a dominant all-round performance. Their relentless bowling attack dismantled Pakistan's chase
Sports
What India vs Pakistan result means for both teams in the tournament

India secured a commanding 61-run victory over Pakistan with a dominant all-round performance. Their relentless bowling attack dismantled Pakistan's chase, taking crucial early wickets and maintaining pressure throughout. This emphatic win significantly strengthens India's tournament position and

Just now

Ishan was told to play domestic cricket, but he chose to train in Baroda with Hardik Pandya instead. A disappointing Indian Premier League season meant he was
Sports
Opener’s fiery 77 means India-Pak tie is no contest again

Ishan was told to play domestic cricket, but he chose to train in Baroda with Hardik Pandya instead. A disappointing Indian Premier League season meant he was not retained by the Mumbai Indians. From then on, there was only one way back, and Ishan realised this

Just now

A firm behind a bid to trademark the brand
Business
Bedding firm backs down on

A firm behind a bid to trademark the brand "Swift Home" for a line of bedding products has withdrawn its application over the weekend, following an appeal by pop star Taylor Swift to the US patents office. A representative for Cathay Home, a company selling home goods through major retailers

Just now

Munir had arrived in Munich with his delegation to participate in the annual security conference. <strong>Munich Security Conference:</strong>
Latest News
Why Pakistan Army chief Asim Munir almost stopped over ID at Munich

Munir had arrived in Munich with his delegation to participate in the annual security conference. Munich Security Conference: Field Marshal Asim Munir, the chief of the Pakistan Army, faced an unexpected and highly publicised moment upon arriving at the Munich Security Conference in Germany

Just now

Nine people, including party workers, police personnel, and journalists, were injured on Sunday as BJP and Congress activists clashed during a protest over
Politics
Nine Injured As BJP

Nine people, including party workers, police personnel, and journalists, were injured on Sunday as BJP and Congress activists clashed during a protest over Congress leader Harshwardhan Sapkal's remarks comparing Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj with Tipu Sultan.Nine people, including party workers

Just now

Congress leader Mani Shankar Aiyar believes Pinarayi Vijayan will remain Kerala's chief minister. He spoke at an event in Thiruvananthapuram
Politics
INC leader Mani Shankar Aiyar sees Pinarayi Vijayan staying as Kerala CM

Congress leader Mani Shankar Aiyar believes Pinarayi Vijayan will remain Kerala's chief minister. He spoke at an event in Thiruvananthapuram. Aiyar urged legal changes to boost Kerala's Panchayati Raj system. He recalled Mahatma Gandhi's vision for local governance

Just now

Greeting people at the festival, the AAP Chief described Mahashivratri as a civilizational celebration rooted in India's ancient spiritual tradition and prayed
World
Mahashivratri is a civilizational festival

Greeting people at the festival, the AAP Chief described Mahashivratri as a civilizational celebration rooted in India's ancient spiritual tradition and prayed that Lord Bholenath's grace always remain upon every citizen. On the sacred occasion of Maha Shivratri

Just now

Swami Vivekananda was a transformative Indian Hindu monk and philosopher who played a pivotal role in introducing Indian spiritual philosophies
Life Style
Quote of the day

Swami Vivekananda was a transformative Indian Hindu monk and philosopher who played a pivotal role in introducing Indian spiritual philosophies, particularly Vedanta and Yoga, to the Western world. Born as Narendranath Datta, Swami Vivekananda was an Indian Hindu monk, philosopher, author

Just now

In addition to declaring the reopening date, the official schedule for the departure of Lord Kedarnath's Panchmukhi Doli toward the Dham was finalised during
World
Kedarnath Temple will be opened on April 22

In addition to declaring the reopening date, the official schedule for the departure of Lord Kedarnath's Panchmukhi Doli toward the Dham was finalised during the ceremony. The portals of Shri Kedarnath Dham will officially reopen for devotees on April 22, 2026, at 8:00 AM

Just now

Africa has stepped into the spotlight as a global powerhouse, not just an emerging market. Visionary Mo Abudu, the trailblazer behind EbonyLife Media
World
It's time for India to hop aboard Africa's Entrepreneurship Express

Africa has stepped into the spotlight as a global powerhouse, not just an emerging market. Visionary Mo Abudu, the trailblazer behind EbonyLife Media, underscores the continent's vibrant entrepreneurial drive and its youthful demographic. With a treasure trove of natural resources and a booming

Just now

Ishan's dream run in T20s continued as he breezed through the Pakistan spin ploy, slamming his second-successive T20 WC fifty and guiding a clinical India to a
Sports
Ishan's coach lauds batter's match-winning knock vs Pakistan

Ishan's dream run in T20s continued as he breezed through the Pakistan spin ploy, slamming his second-successive T20 WC fifty and guiding a clinical India to a 61-run win at Colombo on Sunday, Following Ishan Kishan's brutal 77 against Pakistan which earned India their third-successive win in T20

Just now

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday accused Congress leader Rahul Gandhi of spreading lies and misleading farmers over India's trade deals with the US UK
Politics
Amit Shah Accuses Rahul Gandhi Of ‘Spreading Lies’ On US

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday accused Congress leader Rahul Gandhi of spreading lies and misleading farmers over India's trade deals with the US UK and the EU, asserting the central government has fully safeguarded the interests of the agriculture and dairy sectors

Just now


Sing Up