Maha Shivaratri Day: Blessings of Lord Shiva sought to achieve peace - President

COLOMBO (News 1st): In his wishes for Maha Shivaratri, President Gotabaya Rajapaksa said that just as Maha Shivaratri day celebrations illuminate the spirituality of the Hindu people, the blessings of Lord Shiva is sought to achieve peace, reconciliation, and happiness throughout the society. Hindus across the globe celebrate Maha Shivaratri today (Mar. 11) in honour of the god Shiva. “In the previous year, the Hindu devotees were compelled to observe and celebrate the Maha Shivarathri day adhering to health guidelines due to COVID-19 pandemic. Even though there is some relaxation of certain restrictions, I believe that they will celebrate Maha Shivarathri day this time too adhering to the health guidelines as they did last year," the Head of State's message further read. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa in his wishes for Maha Shivaratri said Lord Shiva's blessings will always be there in favour of the great effort to achieve unity through mutual understanding and reconciliation. "I trust that the pure and holy fast of the Hindu devotees world over will be blessed by Lord Shiva and that all that is good and pure will come to pass. May Maha Shivarathri be a meaningful and joyous day for all those celebrating in Sri Lanka and around the world!" the Premier's message read. Also extending his wishes on the occasion of Maha Shivarathri Day, Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa called it an auspicious day for reconciliation and co-existence among humans.