Melbourne’s Hindu community gathered on 26th February to mark Maha Shivratri, a festival honouring Lord Shiva. Temples across the city welcomed devotees for prayers, chants, and rituals, creating an atmosphere of devotion and reflection.
At Sri Durga Temple in Deanside, High Commissioner Gopal Baglay and Consul General Dr. Sushil Kumar joined the prayers, engaging with worshippers and temple organisers. The temple encouraged visitors to space out their attendance through the day to ease crowding.
Shri Shiva Vishnu Temple in Carrum Downs extended its services from dusk till dawn, offering overnight vigils and meditative sessions. Worshippers embraced the opportunity for spiritual contemplation in a tranquil setting.
In Boronia, the Shree Swaminarayan Temple brought the community together for an evening of devotion, featuring chants and prayers. The Melbourne Mandir in Derrimut also welcomed families for a night of religious observance and blessings.
Maha Shivratri, known as the ‘Great Night of Shiva,’ is a time for fasting, prayer, and self-reflection. Devotees honour the union of Shiva and Shakti, embracing the balance between masculine and feminine energies. The festival is traditionally marked with chants, mantras, and all-night vigils as worshippers seek divine blessings.
In Melbourne, the festival served as both a spiritual and cultural moment, bringing the Hindu community together while fostering broader cultural awareness. The presence of diplomats and community leaders at these celebrations reflected Melbourne’s rich multicultural identity, where traditions continue to thrive in a modern setting.
Support independent community journalism. Support The Indian Sun.
Follow The Indian Sun on X | Instagram | Facebook
Support Independent Community Journalism
Dear Reader,The Indian Sun exists for one reason: to tell stories that might otherwise go unheard.
We report on local councils, state politics, small businesses and cultural festivals. We focus on the Indian diaspora and the wider multicultural community with care, balance and accountability. We publish in print and online, send regular newsletters and produce video content. We also run media training programs to help community organisations share their own stories.
We operate independently.
Community journalism does not have the backing of large media corporations. Advertising revenue fluctuates. Platform algorithms change. Costs continue to rise. Yet the need for credible, grounded reporting in a multicultural Australia has never been greater.
When you support The Indian Sun, you support:
• Independent reporting on issues affecting migrant communities
• Coverage of local and state decisions that shape daily life
• A platform for small businesses and community groups
• Media training that builds skills within the community
• Journalism accountable to readers
We cannot cover everything, but we work to cover what matters.
If you value thoughtful reporting that reflects Australia’s diversity, we invite you to contribute. Every donation helps us maintain the quality and consistency of our work.
Please consider making a contribution today.
Thank you for your support.
The Indian Sun Team
