Pune: Maha Shivratri, also known as 'the great night of Shiva', celebrates the overcoming of darkness. It also celebrates the marriage of the Lord Shiva with the goddess of love, and beauty – Parvati.

Maha Shivratri, is observed by devotees all around the country with much fervour. It is celebrated on the 14th day of the dark fortnight of the Magha month (Hindu lunar calendar). However, due to the current COVID pandemic, there are multiple restrictions and guidelines enforced in place to ensure the safety of the devotees offering prayers on Shivratri.

In view of the COVID-19 outbreak, the Maharashtra government on Wednesday issued guidelines for the Maha Shivratri celebrations. Only 50 people are allowed in a temple at a time during the celebration, the state government stated.

Devotees should not crowd temples and instead offer prayers at home. Management at the temple should ensure that the premises are disinfected and COVID-19 norms such as social distancing and use of masks is followed.

On the other side, Trimbakeshwar Temple in Nashik and Babulnath Temple in Mumbai will remain closed for devotees.