Udaipur, August 8, 2026: The Shiv Katha organised at Narayan Seva Sansthan during the holy month of Shravan concluded with devotional fervour on its final day. Sansthan President Prashant Agarwal narrated poignant episodes associated with the devotion, penance and welfare of humanity linked to Lord Shiva.
He narrated the story of Ravana’s years of intense penance, the manifestation of Lord Shiva and the establishment of the Baba Baidyanath Jyotirlinga, urging devotees to remain devoted while staying away from ego.
Ravana’s Penance and Manifestation of Lord Shiva
Agarwal said true devotion has the power to make the divine appear before a devotee. Pleased with Ravana’s intense penance, Lord Shiva appeared before him and restored his nine severed heads, giving him relief and good health.
Ravana then requested Lord Shiva to take Mount Kailash to Lanka. Lord Shiva instead gave him a divine Shivling. The gods became concerned that Ravana’s pride might increase further if the Shivling reached Lanka. They devised a plan so that the Shivling would be established on Earth.
According to the कथा, while travelling, Ravana had to stop to relieve himself and handed the Shivling to a young boy. After some time, the boy placed the Shivling on the ground. When Ravana returned, he made every effort to lift it but could not move it.
This episode is associated with the establishment of Baba Baidyanath Dham.
Shiva as the Healer of the Soul
Prashant Agarwal said, “Sometimes God does not reject our prayers; instead, He makes an even better plan for us.”
He said Lord Shiva is not only a healer of the body but also a healer of the soul. Worshipping Shiva inspires a person to become healthier, calmer and more compassionate from within.
Stories of Bhimashankar and Nandanar
During the Katha, Agarwal also narrated the stories associated with Bhimashankar Mahadev and devotee Nandanar, highlighting the importance of surrender, equality and faith in devotion.
The devotional programme was filled with music and spiritual fervour. Differently-abled people and their family members enthusiastically participated, danced and raised chants in praise of Lord Shiva. The atmosphere resonated with chants of “Har Har Mahadev.”
Message of Service and Humanity
At the conclusion of the Katha, Agarwal prayed for the welfare of the world, peace and the well-being of humanity. He encouraged those present to take a pledge to “live not for oneself, but for others.”
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.