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Durga Temple marks Maha Shivratri in Virginia
Hundreds gathered for nightlong worship, bhajans and four-phase Shiva prayers.
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Staff Reporter - Wed, 18, Feb 2026
- 04:22 EST
- 20
Aarti and multiple prayer sessions were held in the evening, followed by Sampoorna Aarti. / Sirmukh S Manku
The Durga Temple of Virginia marked Maha Shivratri on Feb. 15, with daylong and late-night worship honoring Lord Shiva.
The temple, located at 8400 Durga Place, remained open from 7 a.m. until midnight. The celebration included the traditional four-pahar pooja, or four phases of worship conducted through the night. Devotees chanted mantras and offered bilva leaves as part of the rituals.
“Maha Shivratri is a sacred night honoring Lord Shiva – the destroyer of ignorance, source of compassion, and symbol of transformation,” organizers said in a statement. “For our Indian American Hindu community in Virginia, it’s a beautiful opportunity to reconnect with our spiritual roots.”
Hundreds of devotees attended, singing Shiva bhajans throughout the evening. / Sirmukh S MankuThe program featured Laghunyasam, Rudrabhishekam, Sukta Parayanam, Bilvashtakam and Shiva Manasa Stotram, along with Shiva Mahima Stotra chanting. Aarti and multiple prayer sessions were held in the evening, followed by Sampoorna Aarti.
Hundreds of devotees attended, singing Shiva bhajans throughout the evening. Organizers noted the participation of children dressed in traditional attire and women who led bhajans and coordinated activities.
“To care for everyone, we served special fasting-friendly prasad, nourishing body and soul,” the statement said.
The temple described itself as a spiritual home for families in the region and thanked supporters for highlighting the celebration. “We invite all Virginians to visit and experience Shiva’s universal message of peace.”
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