Leaders extend Mahasivaratri greetings, pray for peace and prosperity in Andhra Pradesh

Political leaders across party lines on Sunday (February 15, 2026) extended greetings to the people of Andhra Pradesh on the auspicious occasion of Mahasivaratri, invoking the blessings of Lord Siva for peace, prosperity and harmony in the State.

Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu conveyed his wishes, describing Mahasivaratri as one of the most sacred festivals dedicated to Lord Siva. In his message, he noted that Andhra Pradesh is blessed to be home to the revered Srisailam Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlinga kshetrams in the country and a major centre of Shaivite worship.

Referring to the Siva Purana, Mr. Naidu said it is believed that Lord Siva manifested in the form of the Lingam on this holy night. He expressed hope that through sincere devotion, fasting, and night-long vigil, devotees would be blessed with divine grace. The Chief Minister prayed that with Lord Siva’s blessings, Andhra Pradesh would continue on the path of prosperity and communal harmony.

YSR Congress Party president and former Chief Minister Y. S. Jagan Mohan Reddy extended his greetings, describing Mahasivaratri as a sacred festival that symbolises devotion, discipline, and spiritual awakening.

In his message, Mr. Jagan said that the festival reflects the values of faith, dedication, and righteousness that guide society. Offering prayers to Lord Mallikarjuna, he sought peace, prosperity, and well-being for every family in the State. Concluding his message with “Om Namah Sivaya,” he wished that divine grace would always protect the people.

Minister for Human Resource Development Nara Lokesh greeted devotees while referring to Mahasivaratri as the sacred day marking the divine Lingodbhava of the three-eyed Lord. In a devotional message, he invoked Lord Neelakantha and Bholā Shankara, calling upon devotees to observe fasting, night-long vigil, and constant remembrance of Siva’s holy name. “Hara Hara Mahadeva Shambho Shankara… Om Namah Sivaya,” he said.

Meanwhile, Andhra Pradesh BJP president P.V.N. Madhav conveyed his heartfelt wishes, praying that the abundant blessings of Lord Siva be bestowed upon the people of the State. He expressed hope that the divine grace of the Lord would bring peace, prosperity, and well-being to every household.

Mahasivaratri, celebrated with temple rituals, special pujas, and night-long prayers, draws lakhs of devotees to Siva temples across Andhra Pradesh each year, particularly to Srisailam.