Dhuri, 15 February 2026: On the occasion of Maha Shivratri, Aam Aadmi Party National Convenor Arvind Kejriwal and Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann paid obeisance at the revered Sri Rankeshwar Mahadev Temple in Dhuri and performed rituals at the historic Siddh Peeth, seeking blessings for peace, prosperity, and continued development of Punjab and the nation.
The leaders offered prayers at the temple located in the Malwa region and extended greetings to citizens on the festival, describing Maha Shivratri as a spiritually significant observance rooted in India’s ancient traditions.
Spiritual Significance of Maha Shivratri
Maha Shivratri is observed across India as a major Hindu festival dedicated to Lord Shiva. The festival symbolizes spiritual awakening, discipline, and devotion. Cultural historians note that Maha Shivratri commemorates the divine union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati and holds deep significance within Shaivite traditions.
Information regarding the broader civilizational and cultural context of Indian spiritual traditions can be found through institutions such as the Ministry of Culture, Government of India.
Visit to Sri Rankeshwar Mahadev Temple
The Sri Rankeshwar Mahadev Temple, regarded as a prominent Siddh Peeth in the Malwa belt of Punjab, attracts devotees from various districts during major religious occasions. The site is traditionally associated with ancient Shaivite practices and is considered spiritually significant in the region.
Dhuri, located in Punjab’s Sangrur district, remains an important political and cultural center in the state.
Statements Shared on Social Media
Sharing updates on social media platform X, Arvind Kejriwal stated that offering prayers at the temple on Maha Shivratri was a privilege and expressed hope for continued peace and progress. Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann also posted that he prayed for prosperity, harmony, and brotherhood among citizens.
Punjab Incharge Manish Sisodia was also present during the visit.
Historical and Mythological Context
The temple is traditionally linked in local belief to narratives from the Mahabharata, particularly the episode associated with Arjuna’s penance to seek blessings from Lord Shiva. While such associations form part of regional oral traditions, the shrine remains an active place of worship and annual congregation during Maha Shivratri.
Scholars note that Siddh Peeths are historically understood as sacred locations associated with prolonged spiritual practices and devotional discipline.
Cultural Continuity and Heritage Preservation
During interactions with devotees, both leaders emphasized the importance of preserving Punjab’s spiritual and cultural heritage. They referred to recent commemorations including the 350th martyrdom day of Sri Guru Teg Bahadur ji and preparations for the upcoming 650th Parkash Purab of Sri Guru Ravidass ji.
Officials have previously stated that the state government is undertaking initiatives to promote awareness of Punjab’s cultural legacy among younger generations.
Maha Shivratri celebrations at Sri Rankeshwar Mahadev Temple continued throughout the day with devotees participating in traditional rituals and prayers.
