Honour Hindu Sentiments: Dewan Appeals to CM Mann for State-Level Mahashivratri Celebrations

Ludhiana, January 18, 2026: Former president of the District Congress Committee, Ludhiana (Urban) and Ex‑Chairman of the Punjab Large Industrial Development Board Pawan Dewan has urged the Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann to recognize and celebrate the festival of Mahashivratri at the state level in Punjab. Dewan has asserted that by celebrating Mahashivratri officially at the state level, the Punjab Government would be honouring the sentiments of the Hindu community.  

In this regard, Dewan has also sent a formal request letter to the Punjab CM. As per the copy of letter released to the media, Dewan has stated that falling this year on February 15, the sacred occasion of Mahashivratri holds immense spiritual, cultural and emotional significance for millions of Hindus across the nation especially in Punjab. 

“Mahashivratri is not merely a religious observance; it is a symbol of devotion, discipline and unity. Lord Shiva, revered as the destroyer of evil and the embodiment of cosmic balance, is worshipped with deep faith and reverence on this day. For countless devotees, the festival represents a reaffirmation of values such as truth, harmony and selfless service”, reads the letter, emphasizing on the significance of the festival.  

Dewan said that rooted in the timeless traditions of Sanatan Dharma, celebrating Mahashivratri would also strengthen the bonds of social harmony, while adding that Punjab has always been a land of diverse traditions and faiths, where mutual respect and coexistence form the foundation of society. “Observing Mahashivratri as a state festival would send a powerful message of inclusivity, demonstrating that the government values the beliefs of all communities equally”, he observed. 

The letter further highlighted that in Punjab, a land where diverse faiths coexist in harmony, Mahashivratri is observed with profound devotion in the entire state. Dewan reiterated that recognizing Mahashivratri at the state level would not only honour the sentiments of the people but would also reaffirm Punjab’s commitment to inclusivity, spiritual pluralism and reverence for religious heritage. 

“It is our firm belief that this step will honour the religious sentiments of millions, inspire collective participation, foster unity and highlight the state’s commitment to safeguarding traditions that have shaped our civilization for centuries”, Dewan stressed. 

In his concluding remarks, Dewan said, “We are confident that Punjab will set an example of respect and social harmony for every community by celebrating Mahashivratri at the state level”, while requesting the Chief Minister to take a positive decision in this regard.