As about 13% of Sri Lanka's population are Hindus, it is an important day in the country. Translated as 'the great night of Shiva' the festival commemorates several episodes from the life of Shiva.
Maha Shivarathri is a day of respect. The majority of celebrations are religion-related. They include puja to express respect and worship Shiva, fasting as a symbol of obidience and humility, meditation to reflect on self-improvement and religion, festive processions dedicated to Shiva, and visits to temples for festive cermons.
The most popular temples in Sri Lanka to pay homage to Shive during Maha Shivarathri include five main shrines: Naguleswaram temple (Thirukeetheeswaram) in the Northern province located in the north of the island; Ketheeswaram temple, also in the Northern province; Koneswaram in Trincomalee, Eastern Sri Lanka; Muneswaram temple in the western town of Munneswaram, bear Chilaw in the West Northern Province; and Tondeswaram temple near Galle, the Southern province.
Maha Shivarathri to Be Celebrated on March, 4 in Sri Lanka
News in Asia
Maha Shivarathri Day, or Padmarajarathri, one of the major holidays of the Hindu calendar, traditionally celebrated on the 13th night/14th day of the Maagha month in Sri Lanka falls on March, 4 this year.