Maha Shivratri, locally known as Herath, was celebrated across Kashmir with religious fervor on Monday.
Kashmiri Pandits prayed and paid obeisance at temples on the occasion. The biggest gathering was seen at the Shankaracharya Temple in Srinagar.
Special prayers were also held at the Ganpatyar Habakadal Temple and the Hanuman Temple at Amira Kadal in Srinagar.
Pandits distributed walnuts as a mark of respect to Hindu deities. The temples were decorated with different colours and flowers.
The festival is celebrated for three days. On the first day, special 'poojas' are held in all temples, especially in temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. On the second day, Kashmiri Muslims visit the houses of Pandits to offer their greetings.
An official said that the Fisheries Department has made fish available at different stalls in Kashmir, including in Srinagar.
The festival holds an important place among Kashmiri Pandits, who celebrate the wedding of Lord Shiva with Parvati by cooking traditional Kashmiri food, especially fish.
Meanwhile,Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha has extended his greetings to the people of Jammu and Kashmir on the eve of Maha Shivratri.
In his message, Sinha said, the festival is also celebrated as “Herath” by Kashmiri Pandits and is an auspicious occasion to “rededicate ourselves to living a virtuous life”.
“Shiva is the embodiment of strength, righteousness and moral values. On this occasion, I pray for the happiness, prosperity and well-being of all. May this Maha Shivratri strengthen our faith in the goodness of mankind and inspire one and all to lead a virtuous life”, prayed the Lt. Governor.