Srinagar, Feb 26: The Hindu community in Kashmir, alongside visiting tourists, observed Mahashivaratri with deep devotion on Wednesday. Temple visits and prayers marked the celebrations as devotees gathered to seek blessings on this auspicious occasion.
Local Hindus, a minority in the valley, thronged the revered Shankaracharya Temple atop the scenic Zabarwan hills early in the morning to offer their prayers to Lord Shiva. Officials reported that dozens of tourists also visited the temple, immersing themselves in the spiritual atmosphere of the festival. Another significant site of worship, the Martand Sun Temple in South Kashmir’s Anantnag district, also witnessed a steady stream of devotees engaging in rituals and prayers.
Extending his warm greetings on the occasion, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah conveyed his wishes to the Hindu community. Taking to social media platform X, he expressed,
"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."
In a similar gesture of goodwill, Hurriyat Conference Chairman Mirwaiz Umar Farooq extended Herath greetings—Mahashivaratri's traditional observance among Kashmiri Pandits—ahead of the main festival.
"Warm greetings to our Kashmiri Pandit brethren on the occasion of Herath. Pray for restoration of the bond of love and coexistence that is an inherent component of our shared heritage," Mirwaiz posted on X.
Mahashivaratri, one of the most significant Hindu festivals, is widely celebrated across India, symbolizing devotion, spirituality, and the cosmic dance of Lord Shiva. The festivities in Kashmir underscored the spirit of cultural harmony and religious reverence in the region.
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