Devotees queue outside temples to offer prayers on Maha Shivratri
Devotees across the country are celebrating Maha Shivratri today, worshipping Lord Shiva, who is also known as the 'destroyer of evil'. Long queues of devotees were seen at various temples of Lord Shiva since the break of the dawn. Devotees were seen offering bael leaves, milk and honey to 'Shivling' and chant the name of Lord Shiva. The celebrations will continue till late at night. Many devotees also hold a day-long fast. Maha Shivratri is considered auspicious for spiritual growth and is celebrated with immense fervour and a pious spirit by devotees of Lord Shiva. According to Hindu almanac, Maha Shivratri is celebrated on the 13th night and the 14th day of the Phalguna month (somewhere in February and March). The festival, also known as 'the great night of Shiva', celebrates the overcoming of darkness and ignorance. It also marks the beginning of spring. While the origin of the festival is not known, legend has it that on Maha Shivra...