With the onset of Shrawan, one may notice the throngs of devotees doubling in Pashupatinath temple and numerous other shrines of Shiva. Sacred among Hindus the month-long celebration for women is a part of paying homage to Shiva, revered to be one of the most powerful and feared God in the religion.
Shrawan Sankranti is a kaleidoscope of colours here in the heart of the Hindu sanctum. Adorning extravagant glass bangles and shiny bead necklaces women and young girls arrive in hoards with a twinkle in their eyes. Come Monday, greens, yellows and reds are a common sight.
The rain showers bless devotees with fresh, green pastures and equally eager women mirror the colours of nature during this holy month. Fasting rituals and more are adoringly passed on from one generation to the next. With unmarried girls hoping for good husbands and the ones already married hoping for lasting relationships, it is the age-old practice of showing love and devotion to their significant other.
Rife with utter chaos, the vicinity of Pashupatinath is a sight to behold on days like these. The ever-present holy sadhus ready themselves for these crowds, scores of vendors catch your eye with shiny trinkets and expert henna tattoo artists are busy with their skillful hands; all ready to welcome the month of Shrawan with open arms.
Rebecca Shrestha
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