Political leaders across party lines on Sunday (February 15, 2026) greeted the people of Andhra Pradesh on the auspicious occasion of Mahasivaratri and invoked the blessings of Lord Shiva for peace, prosperity and harmony in the state.
Expressing his wishes, Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu described Mahasivaratri as one of the most sacred festivals dedicated to Lord Shiva. 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 center of Shaivite worship.
Referring to the Siva Purana, Mr. Naidu said that Lord Siva is believed to have manifested himself in the form of a lingam on this holy night. He expressed the hope that through sincere devotion, fasting and night vigils, the devotees would be blessed with divine grace. The Chief Minister prayed that Andhra Pradesh, with the blessings of Lord Shiva, would continue on the path of prosperity and communal harmony.
YSR Congress Party President and former Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy hailed and described Mahasivaratri as a sacred festival that symbolizes devotion, discipline and spiritual awakening.
In his message, Mr. Jagan said the festival reflects the values of faith, sacrifice and justice that govern the society. He prayed to Lord Mallikarjun and sought peace, prosperity and well-being for every family in the state. Concluding his message “Om Namah Sivaya”, he wished that the grace of God would always protect the people.
HRD Minister Nara Lokesh greeted the devotees and mentioned Mahasivaratri as a sacred day marking the divine Lingodbhava of the three-eyed Lord. In a devotional message, he invoked Lord Neelakanth and Bhola Shankara and exhorted the devotees to observe fasting, night vigil and constant remembrance of Siva’s holy name. “Hara Hara Mahadeva Shambho Shankara… Om Namah Sivaya,” he said.
Meanwhile, Andhra Pradesh BJP president PVN Madhav expressed his heartfelt wishes and prayed that abundant blessings of Lord Shiva be bestowed on the people of the state. He expressed the hope that God’s grace will bring peace, prosperity and well-being to every household.
Celebrated with temple rituals, special pujas and night prayers, Mahasivaratri attracts thousands of devotees to Shiva temples in Andhra Pradesh, especially Srisailam, every year.
Published – 15 Feb 2026 19:21 IST