Srinagar, Feb 28: Mahashivratri, locally known as Herath, was on Monday celebrated across Kashmir with religious fervour.
Kashmiri Pandits paid obeisance at temples and offered puja on the occasion. The biggest gathering was seen at Shankaracharya Temple in Srinagar.
The special prayers were also held at Ganpatyar Habakadal Temple and Hanuman Temple at Amira Kadal in Srinagar.
Pandits distributed walnuts as a mark of respect to the 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 the Shiva temples, and on the second day Kashmiri Muslims visit the houses of Pandits and extend their greetings.
An official said that Fishers Department has made fish available at different stalls in Kashmir, including in the summer capital, Srinagar.
The festival holds an important place among the Pandits, who celebrate it to mark 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 the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir on the eve of Shab-i-Miraj and Hearth.
In his message of felicitations, the Lt Governor said the auspicious occasion reflects the true spirit of our composite culture and instills the spirit of brotherhood and harmony among all.
The Lt Governor prayed for sustained peace, progress and prosperity in the lives of the people.
He also greeted people on the auspicious occasion of Hearth.
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