New Delhi, Feb 16 : On the auspicious occasion of Maha Shivratri (February 15, 2026), Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) National Convener Arvind Kejriwal and Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann visited Sri Rankeshwar Mahadev Temple in Dhuri, performing puja at the historic Siddh Peeth. The leaders prayed for peace, prosperity, and overall progress for Punjab and the nation.
Spiritual greetings and messages
Sharing glimpses of the rituals on X, Kejriwal wrote, “On Maha Shivratri, I offered prayers at Shri Rankeshwar Mahadev Temple in Dhuri with CM Bhagwant Singh Mann. May Lord Bholenath bless everyone with peace and strength, and may Punjab and the nation continue to progress.”
Mann echoed the sentiments, saying, “We sought Lord Shiva’s blessings for the prosperity, harmony, and well-being of all, joining hands with Arvind Kejriwal and Punjab Incharge Manish Sisodia.” In a joint statement, the leaders emphasized that the festival inspires devotion, truth, mutual love, and spiritual awakening.
Temple’s historical and mythological significance
Sri Rankeshwar Mahadev Temple, a revered Siddh Peeth in the Malwa region, holds links to the Mahabharata era. Tradition holds that Lord Shiva appeared before Arjuna here, blessing him with divine weapons, including the Gandiv Dhanush. Kejriwal and Mann highlighted the temple as a symbol of Shaivite devotion and an integral part of Punjab’s cultural heritage.
Commitment to preserving Punjab’s heritage
Chief Minister Mann reaffirmed the state government’s focus on safeguarding spiritual and cultural landmarks. He cited recent commemorations of the 350th martyrdom day of Sri Guru Teg Bahadur Ji and upcoming preparations for the 650th Parkash Purab of Sri Guru Ravidass Ji, noting such events reinforce Punjab’s living heritage for future generations.
The leaders concluded that celebrating Maha Shivratri at historically significant sites like Sri Rankeshwar Mahadev strengthens the continuity of faith practices while promoting spiritual consciousness and self discipline across the region.