In the BAPS tradition to uphold Hindu festivals and rituals, hundreds celebrated the joyous occasion of Maha Shivratri with great fervor on February 25th. A special cultural program in lieu of the auspicious holiday was held from 4:00 to 7:00 pm extolling the greatness of Lord Shiva. Bhajans were sung a speech was presented that discussed the meaning and relevance of Maha Shivratri. Magnificent decorations were adorned in the Haveli to depict the story of Maha Shivratri. The decors illustrated the meditative-postured murti of Lord Shiva placed amidst a fascinating display of the forest and the mountains A special puja with milk abhishek was also performed by the devotees.
In addition, an appeal for earthquake relief was made by Pujya Vivekmurti Swami to launch the Sponsor-A-Scheme for the rehabilitation of the victims. A special video presentation updated everyone about the BAPS relief efforts in India.