25-foot-long ice shivling for Lord Shiva

The bhang parties may have been put off but preparations for Shivratri celebration is in full swing in Ahmedabad. This is particularly true for Shiva temples in the city. Chakudia Mahadev temple in Rakhial has been adorned with flowers for Shivratri.

"The morning aarti will beginat four in the morning while the maha puja will be performed at 11 in the evening. We have also constructed a 25-foot-tall ice Shiv Linga which will be on display from four in the afternoon on Shivratri," said Jayesh Rawal, the priest of Chakudia Mahadev temple.

At least 3 lakh devotees are expected to visit the temple on Shivratri.  Kameshwar Mahadev Temple at Ankur Cross Roads will also have a 24-hour puja.

Kameshwar Mahadev, the head priest of the temple said the devotees will be allowed to worship Lord Shiva from early morning till 11 am. The entire vicinity around Chakleshwar Mahadev Temple at Rakhial will reverberate with Shiv dhun as chantings of Lord Shiva will be played for 80 hours on the occasion of Shivratri. A procession called Shivyatra will also be taken out at 6 in the evening.