KATHMANDU: Heavy monsoon rain did little to weaken the devotion of worshippers who gathered at Shiva temples across Kathmandu and other parts of Nepal on the third Monday of Shrawan, one of the most sacred months in the Hindu calendar.
From early morning, devotees carrying holy water, bel leaves, flowers, milk, and fruits visited temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. Many observed fasting and offered special prayers for health, peace, prosperity, and the well-being of their families.
In Kathmandu, devotees were seen performing puja and offering prayers at the Mahadev temple premises in Makhan, as well as at the historic Kal Bhairav area and other nearby religious sites. Worshippers carrying umbrellas walked through rain-soaked streets, while several devotees dressed in saffron clothing continued their pilgrimage barefoot despite the wet weather.
The third Shrawan Monday drew particularly strong participation, as Mondays during the month are regarded as especially important for worshipping Lord Shiva. Many devotees believe that fasting, offering prayers, and visiting Shiva temples during Shrawan bring spiritual merit and help fulfil sincere wishes.
Temples across the country receive large numbers of visitors throughout the month, with devotees travelling from different areas to participate in prayers, rituals, and religious gatherings.
The sight of worshippers continuing their prayers amid steady monsoon rain reflected the deep faith connected with Shrawan Somvar and highlighted the continued importance of Nepal’s centuries-old religious and cultural traditions.
Photos: Sunil Sharma
