Mahashivratri celebrated with devotion across J&K

Jammu Tawi, Feb 15: Mahashivratri, locally known as Herath in Kashmir, was celebrated with deep devotion and religious fervour across the union territory on Sunday. Devotees thronged temples, offering prayers and seeking blessings from Lord Shiva.

In Kashmir, the largest congregation was witnessed at the Shankaracharya Temple, overlooking the scenic Dal Lake. Multi-coloured lights illuminated the shrine, and chants of Om Namah Shivaya reverberated throughout the air. Devotees, including tourists, offered flowers, fruits, and performed traditional rituals with reverence.

In Jammu, celebrations were held at major Shiva temples including Raghunath Mandir, Ranbireshwar Temple, Peer Kho, Aap Shambhu, Purnmande, Utter Behni and Shivkhori Shrines. Devotees visited these shrines in large numbers, performing rituals and seeking divine blessings, keeping alive the spiritual and cultural traditions of the region.

Herath, meaning the “night of Hara” (Lord Shiva), is especially significant for the Kashmiri Pandit community. Observed on the 13th day of the dark fortnight of Phalguna, it marks the divine wedding of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. A key ritual involves soaking walnuts in clay vessels, symbolising fertility, prosperity, and divine blessings.

Tourists and devotees from across India expressed their joy at participating in the festivities. “This festival is celebrated with devotion in many parts of the country, but experiencing it here in Kashmir and Jammu feels truly special,” said Pooja, a visitor from Bihar. Upesh, another tourist, added, “We planned our trip to coincide with Mahashivratri. It is a blessing to witness the rituals and seek darshan at these sacred temples.”

The celebrations across Jammu and Kashmir highlighted the region’s vibrant spiritual traditions and the collective faith of its people in preserving cultural heritage while welcoming devotees from across the nation.