Mahashivaratri is a Hindu festival celebrated in an austere manner-fasting and remaining awake the whole night in remembrance of God. It is a night of vigil – vigil over our thoughts, words and actions. It is a night wherein we should try to awaken the divinity within us.

The morning of Mahashivaratri on the 10th of this month got off to an auspicious start with devotees converging at the Nerul Ashram at 9.00 am. A continuous group chanting program was arranged. Comprising a half-hour slot, each group of around 10-20 members chanted the Aum Namaha Shivaya mantra and the Mahamrityunjaya Mantra. The chanting session concluded at 5.00 pm.

The bhajan session from 5.30 pm onwards was well-attended by Amma’s children from all parts of the city.   Devotees then made their way to the Brahmasthanam to participate in the Shiva Puja and get a glimpse of the Abhishekam performed to Lord Shiva. As the Abhishekam progressed, it was appropriately accompanied by chanting of the Mahamrityunjaya Mantra, the Shiva Ashtothram, the Panchakshara Stothram and other hymns in praise of Lord Shiva.

The program concluded with the Arati to Lord Shiva, amidst animated chanting of ‘Aum Namaha Shivaya’ after which devotees dispersed, making a resolve to spend the rest of the night of vigil in contemplation.