Thousands of devotees gathered at the historical Raidongia Dol in Lezai-Khalkhowa, Dibrugarh, Assam, to celebrate Maha Shivratri with immense devotion and enthusiasm. The sacred site, built in 1750 by Ahom King Swargadeo Parmatta Singha, holds deep religious and cultural importance, attracting pilgrims from across the region.
Maha Shivratri, which falls on the fourteenth day of Krishna Paksha in the Hindu month of Phalgun, is a major festival dedicated to Lord Shiva. Devotees observed the auspicious occasion by offering prayers, performing rituals, and fasting in reverence to the deity.
The Historical Importance of Raidongia Dol
The Raidongia Dol, located just 22 km from Dibrugarh, is a remarkable example of Assam’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage. Built during the Ahom dynasty, this ancient temple once had roads connecting it to Gargaon (the Ahom capital) and present-day Dhemaji.
Even today, the old route to Gargaon still exists, serving as a reminder of Assam’s historical connectivity and architectural brilliance. Devotees visiting the temple on Maha Shivratri honor the legacy of the Ahoms while seeking divine blessings.
Maha Shivratri Festivities at Raidongia Dol
On Maha Shivratri, the atmosphere at Raidongia Dol was filled with devotional fervor, as devotees performed traditional rituals, chanted sacred hymns, and participated in religious discourses. Many devotees fasted throughout the day, believing that their prayers would bring prosperity, good health, and spiritual enlightenment.
A local resident expressed the importance of preserving the site, saying: “Every year during Shivratri, we come to Raidongia Dol to pray for the health and well-being of our family and citizens. I urge the Assam government to preserve this historical site.”
The presence of thousands of devotees at the temple highlights its spiritual importance and the growing awareness about its historical value.
Maha Shivratri Celebrations at Prachin Shiv Mandir, Dibrugarh
Apart from Raidongia Dol, devotees in Dibrugarh also gathered at the 200-year-old Prachin Shiv Mandir on Station Road, which was established in 1818.
The temple, known for its age-old traditions and rituals, saw a steady stream of worshippers who offered prayers, performed aarti, and observed fasts to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva.
Bulbul Sharma, a devotee at Prachin Shiv Mandir, appreciated the well-organized arrangements, saying: “The celebrations were beautifully managed. It was a spiritually enriching experience to worship at such an ancient temple.”
The Importance of Maha Shivratri in Hindu Tradition
Maha Shivratri is one of the most significant festivals in Hinduism, observed with great reverence across India. The festival symbolizes the divine union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, and is believed to be a time when devotees’ prayers are most potent.
Fasting & Worship: Devotees observe a strict fast, consume fruits, milk, and water, and chant “Om Namah Shivaya” throughout the day. Night-Long Vigil: Many devotees stay awake all night, engaging in bhajans, kirtans, and Shiva Abhishekam (ritualistic bathing of the Shiva Linga). Sacred Offerings: Worshippers offer bel leaves, milk, honey, and flowers to the Shiva Linga, seeking divine grace and blessings.
Preserving Assam’s Religious Heritage
The Maha Shivratri celebrations at Raidongia Dol and Prachin Shiv Mandir highlight Assam’s deep-rooted spiritual traditions and the need for preserving its historical temples.
Cultural Importance: These temples are not just places of worship but also serve as historical landmarks representing Assam’s ancient legacy. Tourism Potential: The government’s support in restoring and promoting Raidongia Dol could enhance spiritual tourism in Assam. Conservation Efforts: Local residents and devotees have called for the state government to take proactive steps in ensuring the preservation of these centuries-old temples.
The Maha Shivratri celebrations at Raidongia Dol and Prachin Shiv Mandir reflect the strong spiritual and cultural traditions of Assam. As thousands of devotees flock to these sacred sites, there is a growing demand to protect and promote Assam’s religious heritage.
With increasing awareness and governmental efforts, Raidongia Dol can emerge as a major spiritual destination, attracting pilgrims and history enthusiasts from across the country.
