New Delhi (IANS): As anticipation peaked ahead of the high-voltage T20 World Cup clash between India and Pakistan, special prayers, havans and religious rituals were organised across the country on the occasion of Mahashivratri, with devotees seeking divine blessings for India’s victory.
In Lucknow, the Vishwa Hindu Parishad organised a havan and pooja ahead of the much-anticipated encounter. Similar rituals were also conducted in Patna, where prayers were offered for the Indian team’s success.
BJP leader Anil Sahni said a havan was performed at Kulharia Complex in Patna for India’s victory. “On the occasion of Lord Bholenath’s festival, prayers were offered wishing for India’s win in the India–Pakistan match,” he said.
The spiritual fervour surrounding Mahashivratri coincided with heightened cricket excitement, as fans expressed confidence in India’s strong record against Pakistan in ICC tournaments. One cricket fan said, “On the holy occasion of Mahashivratri, the India–Pakistan match will go in our favour. We will achieve a decisive victory.”
Another fan remarked that Mahashivratri symbolised righteousness and faith, adding that India had consistently dominated Pakistan in ICC tournaments. “India has won several times against them, and Pakistan has rarely stood strong,” he said.
Echoing similar sentiments, a devotee noted that special Jalabhishek rituals were underway at temples, while expressing confidence that India would continue its winning momentum. “India has outperformed Pakistan at every stage before. A victory by the senior team today will further strengthen that record,” he said.
In Patna, young cricket fans also displayed strong enthusiasm ahead of the clash. One fan said players like Ishan Kishan, Abhishek Sharma and Suryakumar Yadav were expected to perform well. “India is likely to win comfortably,” he added.
Another young cricket enthusiast said there was tremendous excitement around the match, expressing hope that India would emerge victorious once again.
With Mahashivratri adding a spiritual dimension to the sporting spectacle, fans across the country combined faith and cricketing passion, hoping for another memorable win for India against Pakistan in the T20 World Cup.
