Hearath Celebrated Across Kashmir Valley

(MENAFN- Kashmir Observer) Srinagar- The Hindu community in Kashmir, along with tourists, celebrated Mahashivaratri here on Wednesday.

Local Hindus, who are a minority in the valley, visited the Shankaracharya temple atop Zabarwan hills here early in the morning to pay obeisance to lord Shiva on the occasion also called 'Hearath' here.

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Braving the chilly and wet weather conditions, devotees formed long queues to seek blessings at the revered temple, which was beautifully decorated for the festival.

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The worshippers, while chanting hymns and performing rituals, expressed their devotion to lord Shiva.

Mohan, a devotee in Srinagar said Maha Shivaratri holds great significance for them.“Every year, we come here to offer prayers and seek divine blessings,” he said.

Read Also In Photos: Mahashivratri Celebrated Across Kashmir

Another worshipper at the shrine said the festival symbolises spiritual awakening and unity.“This festival is about faith and devotion. We pray for peace and prosperity,” he added.

Maha Shivaratri, meaning 'The Great Night of Shiva', is a Hindu festival dedicated to lord Shiva. Observed annually, it is believed to be the night when Lord Shiva performed the“Tandava”, the cosmic dance of creation, preservation and destruction. Devotees fast, offer milk and bel patra (Bilva leaves) to Shiva Lingams, and engage in night-long prayers.

Security measures were arranged at the Shankaracharya temple to provide a smooth and peaceful celebration. The temple authorities also made necessary arrangements for devotees

Dozens of tourists also visited the temple to observe Mahashivaratri. Devotees also offered prayers at the Martand Sun temple in South Kashmir's Anantnag district.

Meanwhile, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah extended Mahashivaratri greetings to the Hindu community.

“Wishing everyone a blessed and Happy Maha Shivratri! May this sacred occasion bring peace, prosperity, and divine blessings to all and guide us towards strength, wisdom, and harmony,” Abdullah said in a post on X.

Hurriyat Conference Chairman Mirwaiz Umar Farooq also extended Hearath wishes to Kashmiri Pandit community. Hearath is celebrated by Kashmiri Pandits a day ahead of Mahashivaratri.

“Warm greetings to our Kashmiri pandit brethren on the occasion of Hearath. Pray for restoration of the bond of love and coexistence that is an inherent component of our shared heritage,” Mirwaiz posted on his X account.

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