GRAND-BASSIN: The ascent to Shiva

Situated on the Himalayas, Manimahesh Kailash Peak is commonly known as the abode of Shiva. This pilgrimage site, not easily accessible, is an indication that the ascent to Shiva is not easy. But, one may wonder: why would anyone leave the comforts and luxuries of city life and head for this perilous journey? Can it be a sense of dissatisfaction for the worldly life and a desire to experience the divine?  Or, is it just an intense desire to discover the unknown? Whatever may be the reasons, the fact is that millions of people every year head towards the Himalayas. Many of them simply wish to get the blessing of Lord Shiva.  
In Mauritius, devotees traditionally visit Grand-Bassin during Mahashivaratri (the great night of Shiva). On this day, the holy place abounds with people.  They are mostly devotees who are keen to be showered with the positive energy generated by continuous prayers. The festival is an opportunity for them to get closer to Shiva. Prior to Mahashivaratri, they fast to purify their mind, body and senses. They engage in the recitation of mantras or sacred chants and immerse themselves in the worship of their favourite deity. They become more aware of their thoughts, speech and actions. This allows them to gradually distinguish between right and wrong and avoid hurting others. During that period, many people are engaged in service. They serve others irrespective of their caste, creed, sex or colour. There is a great élan of solidarity, an atmosphere of piety and a feeling of oneness. This may lead some to engage in wishful thinking and hope this sense of interconnectedness will perpetuate even after Mahashivaratri. If it is the case, we shall make an effort to be good to others and work not only for our own selfish interests. We shall think twice before maligning others and engage in corruptive practices. Instead of creating division, we shall endeavour to bring unity. Peace and harmony will be the clarion call. How we wish all these to be true! It may perhaps exist in a utopian world, far-reaching as Mount kailash and difficult to attain as Shiva. Is it impossible though? Well, the answer will depend on our abilities of self-mastery and the extent to which we are dedicated to the higher good.
However, we may conclude that to reach Shiva, we need to be prepared to make sacrifices. It may be the Shiva in Kailash, the one in Grand-Bassin or simply the Shiva in us who personifies auspiciousness. Whoever we choose, the ascent requires strength of mind, patience, perseverance and humility. We may have to bend down and fall many times but if we have faith, we shall look upon the failures as hints to success. Perhaps then, we shall be able to reach higher heights and ascend to Shiva.