The Kashmir Pulse

SRINAGAR — Maha Shivratri, locally known as 'Herath,' is being celebrated with religious zeal and enthusiasm throughout Jammu and Kashmir on Friday.

Kashmiri Pandits are observing the occasion by offering prayers at temples and paying homage. The largest congregation is anticipated at the Shankaracharya Temple, which overlooks the iconic Dal Lake in Srinagar.

Special prayers are also scheduled at Ganpatyar and Hanuman Temple in Amira Kadal, Srinagar.

"The festival holds great significance for the Pandits, who commemorate the wedding of Lord Shiva with Parvati by preparing traditional Kashmiri dishes, particularly fish," remarked a Kashmiri Pandit.

"Maha Shivratri, known locally as Herath, is celebrated across J&K and holds a special place in the hearts of Kashmiri Pandits," he added.

Maha Shivaratri, or Herath, is traditionally marked by a night dedicated to the worship of Lord Shiva.

During this festival, Pandits distribute walnuts as a symbol of reverence to the Hindu deities, while temples are adorned with vibrant colours and flowers in the days leading up to the celebration.

Meanwhile, R.R Swain, Director General of Police, J&K, extended warm greetings to citizens, police personnel, security forces, and the families of martyrs on the auspicious occasion of Maha Shivratri.

In his message, the DGP emphasized the profound significance of Maha Shivratri, symbolizing strength, determination, and resilience. He urged citizens to unite with the police force in creating a secure environment for all, emphasizing the values of unity, integrity, and commitment to justice that Maha Shivratri embodies.

The celebration of 'Herath' underscores the cultural richness and religious diversity of Jammu and Kashmir.

This post first appeared on The Kashmir Pulse

SRINAGAR — Kashmiri Pandits on Tuesday celebrated Maha Shivratri, locally known as ‘Herath’, with religious fervour and zeal across Kashmir.

People belonging to the Pandit community thronged different temples, including Shankaracharya, to offer prayers.

A huge rush of devotees was witnessed at Shankaracharya Temple where special arrangements were made by the government as well as the NGOs.

Talking to the news agency Kashmir News Observer (KNO), a Kashmiri Pandit said, “On this occasion, we prayed for the communal brotherhood in Kashmir between Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs and people belonging to other religions.”

“It is a joyous moment that two special occasions like Shab-e-Me’raj and Maha Shivratri are being observed on the same day. The coincidence has brought the two religions together,” he said.

He further said that he wants to hug his Muslim brothers again on this occasion like before the 90s and “I pray for same brotherhood again.”

“I still remember when we used to be together on this occasion at Habba Kadal and climb Shankarachari temple all together,” he said and greeted Muslim brethren on the occasion of Shab-e-Me’raj.

Meanwhile, Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir, P K Pole also thronged the Shankaracharya temple here to offer prayers.

Talking to the media persons here, he said that all the arrangements were put in place on the eve of Shab-e-Me’raj and Maha Shivratri.

This post first appeared on The Kashmir Pulse