Hindus across the country on Friday observed the Mahashivaratri festival worshipping Lord Shiva.

Shivaratri, dedicated to Hindu Lord Shiva, is one of the four nights—Kaalratri, Moharatri, Sukharatri and Shivaratri considered sacred according to the Vedic calendar, and is regarded as one of the greatest festivals in the holy scriptures of the Hindus—the Puranas.

During the day, devotees take baths in rivers and ponds, visit Lord Shiva’s shrines and pay homage to one of the triumvirates of the Hindu pantheon, who is believed to have drunk poison to save humankind and gods from annihilation, according to Hindu mythology.

Likewise, fasting is also observed during the festival and the night observed with vigil (jagram), praying to and celebrating the day dedicated to Lord Shiva. There is a belief that vigil and fasting take one to heaven after death.

Similarly, classical dances are performed at Kailashkut and Kirateshwor of the Pashupati area.

To mark the auspicious day, devotees, especially sages from various parts of the country and India, arrive at the Pashupatinath temple in Kathmandu.

Hordes of devotees thronged to the holy shrine from early morning on Friday.

Here are some images of the festival from Pashupatinath temple captured by Post photojournalist Angad Dhakal.