DHURI: On the sacred occasion of Maha Shivratri, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) National Convenor Arvind Kejriwal and Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann paid obeisance at the revered Sri Rankeshwar Mahadev Temple in Dhuri and performed rituals at the historic Siddh Peeth, invoking blessings for peace, prosperity and continued progress of Punjab and the nation.

Kejriwal and Mann visited the Sri Rankeshwar Mahadev Temple, considered one of the most revered Siddh Peeths in Punjab’s Malwa region, where they offered prayers and performed traditional puja on the occasion of Maha Shivratri. The leaders prayed for communal harmony, social unity and economic progress, while extending greetings to citizens across Punjab and the country.

In a message shared publicly, Kejriwal described Maha Shivratri as a “civilizational festival rooted in India’s ancient spiritual tradition,” emphasizing its deeper spiritual and cultural significance beyond ritual observance. He expressed hope that Lord Shiva’s blessings would continue to guide citizens and strengthen the nation’s path towards development and prosperity.

The visit took place on Sunday, February 15, coinciding with Maha Shivratri celebrations, at the Sri Rankeshwar Mahadev Temple located in village Ranike in Dhuri constituency of Sangrur district, Punjab. The temple holds immense religious and historical significance and attracts devotees from across the region during major Shaivite festivals.

The visit underscores the AAP leadership’s emphasis on connecting governance with Punjab’s spiritual and cultural roots. Chief Minister Mann reiterated the state government’s commitment to preserving Punjab’s spiritual heritage and ensuring that younger generations remain connected to the state’s rich cultural legacy.

He highlighted that Punjab continues to honour its historic spiritual milestones, including the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Sri Guru Teg Bahadur and preparations for the 650th Parkash Purab of Sri Guru Ravidass. Mann said such commemorations reflect the state’s dedication to preserving its legacy of sacrifice, faith and social reform.

Historical and Cultural Significance of the Shrine

Sri Rankeshwar Mahadev Temple is regarded as an ancient Siddh Peeth associated with deep spiritual practices and centuries-old Shaivite traditions. According to local belief, the temple’s origins are linked to the Mahabharata period, where Arjuna is said to have performed penance to seek divine blessings from Lord Shiva and was bestowed with celestial weapons.

Such Siddh Peeths are traditionally seen as spiritually energized spaces where generations of devotees have performed meditation and rituals. The temple continues to serve as a living symbol of Punjab’s layered spiritual identity and enduring devotional traditions.

How the Leaders Framed Maha Shivratri’s Significance

Both leaders emphasized that Maha Shivratri represents spiritual awakening, self-discipline and the eternal union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. They described the festival as a symbol of devotion, harmony and moral strength that transcends religious ritual and reinforces India’s civilizational continuity.

They also stressed that preserving and promoting spiritual heritage remains a key priority of the Punjab government, not only as a matter of faith but also as an essential component of cultural identity and social cohesion.

Broader Political and Social Context

The temple visit comes amid ongoing efforts by the Punjab government to reinforce cultural pride while balancing governance priorities. Public participation in Maha Shivratri celebrations across Punjab reflects the continuing relevance of faith-based traditions in shaping community life and regional identity.

By participating in the Maha Shivratri rituals at Sri Rankeshwar Mahadev Temple, Kejriwal and Mann sought to convey a message of unity, continuity and shared cultural heritage, while invoking divine blessings for Punjab’s stability, prosperity and collective progress.