Mahashivratri Under Repeated Attack: A Disturbing Pattern of Targeted Violence

 

 

 

 

 

This episode adds to a growing list of confrontations that have marked Mahashivratri celebrations in recent years.

 

 

A day earlier, on 14 February 2026, in Amroha, Uttar Pradesh, Kanwariyas returning from Haridwar reportedly faced stone pelting and assault near a Shiv temple in the Chebda locality. What began as a devotional celebration reportedly escalated following alleged objectionable remarks during a birthday gathering nearby. Several devotees sustained injuries in the ensuing violence.

 

 

In February 2025, in Dumraon village under Ichak police station limits in Hazaribagh, Jharkhand, preparations for Mahashivratri reportedly triggered violent opposition. Stone pelting and arson were reported from areas near a madrasa, despite prior police mediated discussions. Vehicles were torched and multiple persons were injured.

 

Earlier, in 2023, in Panki in Palamu district, Jharkhand, a Shiv Barat procession was allegedly attacked with stones and petrol bombs following disputes over a ceremonial gateway and the use of loudspeakers.

 

 

In Chhindwara district, Madhya Pradesh, in 2023, a Shiv Parvati tableau was reportedly obstructed and attacked during Mahashivratri festivities. The incident resulted in injuries and alleged threats of future consequences for organising similar events.

 

 

Similarly, in Aland town of Kalaburagi district, Karnataka, in 2022, clashes erupted near a dargah when Hindu groups celebrating Mahashivratri allegedly came under attack. Police reported more than 167 arrests in connection with the violence.

 

 

At the International Shivratri Mahotsav in Mandi, Himachal Pradesh, controversy arose when Sufi performers rendered songs in praise of Allah rather than Lord Shiva. The performance triggered objections from sections of the Hindu community. Critics viewed the episode as symbolic of cultural dilution at a traditionally Shaivite celebration in what is often described as Devbhoomi.

 

 

The documented cases also include deeply disturbing criminal incidents that occurred during Mahashivratri.

 

In Bulandshahr in 2021, a 25 year old woman returning from a Kanwar yatra was allegedly sexually assaulted by an acquaintance.

 

 

In Mainpuri in 2021, a five year old girl visiting a temple was allegedly raped by a local accused, who was later arrested.

 

 

The pattern traces back further. In Barabanki in 2018, a Shiv Barat reportedly faced lathi attacks after colours fell on members of another community. In Agra and Aligarh in 2019, Shivratri preparations and even service activities organised for Kanwariyas reportedly invited hostility or became the target of social media campaigns.

 

In Haryana in 2023, a Hindu youth preparing for Mahashivratri celebrations at a temple alleged that a large mob assaulted him. He later shared video testimony on social platforms describing the incident.

 

 

Taken together, these incidents between 2018 and 2026 form a documented chronology of confrontation, violence, cultural contestation and criminal activity linked to Mahashivratri celebrations across several states. The recurrence of such episodes during a major religious observance has raised concerns about communal harmony, law and order preparedness and the safety of devotees participating in traditional processions and temple gatherings.