Dhanbad: Maha Shivratri was celebrated with great enthusiasm and religious fervour across the city on Sunday, as thousands of devotees thronged Shiva temples from early morning to offer prayers. The festive spirit was further heightened by grand “Shiv Baraat” processions taken out in several localities, drawing huge crowds.Amid the sea of worshippers, mayoral candidates and their supporters were also seen visiting temples and interacting with people as part of their election outreach. Campaigning continued alongside religious activities, with candidates offering prayers and simultaneously appealing for public support.In Vinod Nagar, mayoral candidate Ravi Chaudhary joined a Shiv Baraat procession in the evening. Walking with devotees, he greeted participants and sought votes, engaging in brief conversations with residents gathered along the route.Similar scenes were witnessed at various temples throughout the day, where candidates made frequent visits to maximise public contact. At the Hirapur Shiv Temple, priest Umakant Pandey said, “A huge number of devotees visited since morning, with women forming the majority. All are offering water to Lord Shiva and praying for the fulfilment of their wishes.”Pandey added, “Busy temples provide an opportunity to meet many voters at once, which is why several candidates are visiting here.”
