Maha Shivratri was observed with religious fervor by Kashmiri Pandits and Hindus and a large number of devotees thronged the Shankaracharya temple in Srinagar to pay obeisance on the occasion.
Maha Shivratri is locally known as Herath and as part of their unique traditions, Kashmiri Pandits observe nightlong prayers and offer walnuts, which are placed in a watuk (earthen pot) as a sacred ritual.
Despite the inclement weather, tourists and devotees, including men, women, and children, patiently queued up along the stairs of the Shankaracharya Temple, perched on a hill overlooking the picturesque Dal Lake.
Authorities in Srinagar had made adequate arrangements to facilitate smooth and hassle-free visits for devotees at the temple and other places of worship.
A group of tourists from Mumbai, Himachal Pradesh, and Delhi was delighted after paying obeisance on a cold weather morning at the temple.
Kritika from Delhi said, “It was a great experience to visit Shankaracharya temple on the occasion of Maha Shivratri.”
She said the spiritual feelings are all around this temple.
The devotees also took part in the special prayers and prayed for the eternal and everlasting peace for the country, particularly Kashmir.
Lt Governor Manoj Singh, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, ministers and political leaders greeted the people on Maha Shivratri.