DHURI, Feb 16 — Aam Aadmi Party National Convener Arvind Kejriwal and Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann visited the historic Sri Rankeshwar Mahadev Temple on Sunday to mark the sacred occasion of Maha Shivratri. The leaders performed Pooja at the Siddh Peeth, where they offered prayers for the continued progress, harmony, and well-being of the people of Punjab and the nation.
During the visit, Arvind Kejriwal described the festival as a civilizational celebration deeply rooted in the ancient spiritual traditions of the country. He maintained that the divine energy of the occasion provides mental peace and spiritual strength. In a statement shared following the prayers, he noted his privilege in visiting the Dhuri shrine and expressed his hope that the blessings of Lord Bholenath would remain upon all citizens.
Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann affirmed the state government’s dedication to upholding the spiritual and cultural legacy of Punjab. He stated that the administration remains committed to ensuring that future generations stay connected to their roots. The Chief Minister declared that the government has consistently honored the state’s glorious history, citing recent large-scale commemorations such as the 350th Shaheedi Diwas of Sri Guru Teg Bahadur ji and upcoming celebrations for the 650th Parkash Purab of Sri Guru Ravidass ji.
The leaders also pointed to the historical significance of the temple, which is traditionally linked to the Mahabharata era. They asserted that the site is believed to be the location where Arjuna performed penance to receive divine weapons from Lord Shiva. This connection, they maintained, provides the shrine with deep mythological resonance and highlights the continuity of Shaivite devotion within the Malwa region.
The visit concluded with the leaders stating that such festivals reinforce the values of piety, mutual love, and social unity. They affirmed that the Punjab government is working diligently to preserve these living heritage sites, ensuring they remain vibrant centers of faith rather than forgotten monuments of the past.
