The festival of Mahashivaratri<\/strong> is being celebrated today with much fervor and gaiety across Nepal.<\/p>\n According to the lunar calendar, Mahashivaratri is observed on the day of Krishna Chaturdashi<\/strong> of Falgun<\/strong>. This year, the festival is being observed on March 11.<\/p>\n The festival comes with a number of mythological beliefs.<\/p>\n According to some Puranas, on this day, Lord Shiva drank poison to save the earth, which made his throat blue, while others believe that this day marks the convergence of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.<\/p>\n Chairperson of Nepal Calendar Determination Committee, Prof. Dr. Ramchandra Gautam, informed that Lord Brahma took the form of Shiva in the midnight of Krishna Chaturdashi.<\/p>\n On this auspicious day, Nepali Hindus take a holy bath in rivers and visit Lord Shiva<\/strong> temple to offer prayers and seek blessings from the almighty.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Today, people observe fasting during the day and stay vigil (jagram) during the night, praying and chanting mantras.<\/p>\n Devotees believe that fasting and jagram bring happiness, prosperity, and success in life, and Lord Shiva bestows his blessings.<\/p><\/blockquote>\n