The serene hills of Srinagar witnessed a vibrant display of devotion as thousands of devotees thronged the historic Shankaracharya Temple on Wednesday to celebrate Maha Shivratri, locally known as ‘Herath’. This significant festival, which holds deep cultural and religious importance for the Kashmiri Pandit community, saw an impressive turnout despite the chilly weather and persistent rain.
From the early hours of the morning, devotees, including families and tourists from various parts of India, began their ascent to the temple, which is perched atop Takhat-e-Suliman and offers breathtaking views of the iconic Dal Lake. The atmosphere was charged with spirituality as men, women, and children patiently queued along the temple’s winding stairs, eager to pay their respects to Lord Shiva.
Maha Shivratri, celebrated on the fourteenth night of the dark half of Phalguna, marks the divine union of Lord Shiva and Parvati. Traditionally, Kashmiri Pandits observe this sacred occasion with nightlong prayers, cooking special dishes, and distributing walnuts as a gesture of reverence to the deities. The temples were adorned with vibrant decorations and fragrant flowers, enhancing the festive spirit.
Among the many who made their way to the temple was Anmol Kumar, who expressed his joy at witnessing the spiritual ambience. “It was a great experience to visit Shankaracharya temple on this holy occasion,” he remarked.
Other devotees and those establishing Langar for devotees expressed their joy and happiness over the auspicious occasion and said that they celebrate this festival along with the locals of the Muslim community since age’s in Kashmir Valley.
In a show of solidarity and goodwill, JK Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, and other dignitaries extended heartfelt greetings to the people on this auspicious day. The authorities had made extensive arrangements to ensure a smooth experience for the devotees, reflecting the importance of this occasion in the region.
As the day unfolded, prayers resonated through the temple grounds, with devotees collectively seeking peace and prosperity for their homeland, particularly Kashmir. The celebrations of Maha Shivratri not only highlight the rich cultural heritage of Jammu and Kashmir but also foster a sense of unity and hope among the people.
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