Gorakhpur, Feb 26 (UNI) Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister and Gorakshpeethadhishwar Yogi Adityanath on Wednesday dedicated his day to the worship of Lord Shiva on the auspicious occasion of Maha Shivratri.
From the sacred premises of Goraksh Peeth to four major Shiva temples in the district, the CM performed rituals including darshan, pooja, jalabhishek, and Rudrabhishek with utmost devotion.
Following the traditional rituals, CM Yogi prayed to Lord Adiyogi for the well-being of the people, national prosperity and a life of health, peace and happiness for all citizens. His spiritual journey continued from morning till the afternoon as he visited multiple temples, offering prayers and seeking divine blessings on this significant day.
He started his Maha Shivratri rituals at Gorakhnath Temple during which he performed the sacred Rudrabhishek of Lord Shiva using cow’s milk at the Shakti Temple on the first floor of the monastery. Following this, he conducted a havan and offered aarti, praying to Lord Shiva for the well-being of all living beings.
Before this, he also worshipped at the Shiva temple within the Gorakhnath Temple complex, where he offered prayers to Lord Nandi and performed Jalabhishek (holy water offering) to Lord Shiva. In the Nath tradition, Guru Gorakhnath is believed to be an incarnation of Lord Shiva, dedicated to the welfare of all. The Gorakhnath Temple itself is rooted in this spirit of public welfare.
This makes Maha Shivratri an especially significant occasion for the Goraksh Peethadheeshwar (head of the Gorakhnath monastery), Yogi Adityanath.
After completing rituals at Gorakhnath Temple, he visited three major Shiva temples in Gorakhpur, including Manasarovar Shiv Temple in Andhiyari Bagh, Mukteshwar Nath Temple in Rajghat and Jharkhandi Mahadev Temple.
He offered prayers, performed Jalabhishek and wished for the well-being of all. During his visit, he directed the officials to ensure proper security, cleanliness, and facilities for devotees. He also interacted with worshippers and inquired about their well-being.
At Manasarovar Temple, CM Yogi offered belpatra, bhang, dhatura and flowers to Lord Shiva and performed rituals amid Vedic chants. Noticing children among the devotees, he warmly interacted with them and gave blessings.
Later, at Mukteshwar Nath Temple, he conducted Jalabhishek and gifted chocolates to children. His final stop was Jharkhandi Mahadev Temple, where he performed traditional worship.
In the afternoon, the CM visited the historic Piteshwar Nath Temple in Bharohiya, performing prayers and Jalabhishek. This temple, linked to the Pandavas, holds a deep connection with the Gorakshpeeth, and every Mahashivratri, the Peethadhishwar performs rituals here.
He planted Harishankari trees (Peepal, Banyan, and Pakar) on the temple premises and observed the drawing map of the project implemented by the Tourism Department for the beautification of the temple and gave necessary guidelines. He also met the local people in the premises of Guru Gorakhnath Vidyapeeth located in front of the Shiva temple in Bharohia and enquired about their well-being.
