Srinagar, Mar 9: Herath or Shivratri, the annual festival of Kashmiri Pandits, would be celebrated across Jammu and Kashmir with religious fervor and gaiety on Sunday.
Governor NN Vohra has greeted people on the auspicious occasion of Mahashivratri, celebrated by Kashmiri Pandits as Herath. In his message of felicitations, the Governor observed that “this festival symbolizes the values of piety, devotion, brotherhood and harmony which are the hallmark of our glorious pluralistic ethos.”
Wishing people a happy Mahashivratri, the Governor prayed for peace, progress and prosperity in the State. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah also greeted people on Mahashivratri, wishing them happiness and well-being.
In his felicitation message, the Chief Minister recalled the rich ethos of celebrating Herath in Kashmir by Pandits and Muslims in a unique atmosphere of harmony and brotherhood. The Chief Minister expressed hope that the pluralistic heritage of the State and the bonds of love between various sections of the society would get further strengthened.
Omar said that observing holy occasions and festivals in an atmosphere of togetherness adds colour to the celebrations. He prayed for peace, prosperity and progress for the State and the country.
Speaker Jammu and Kashmir Assembly Mubarak Gul conveyed his warm greetings to the people on the eve of Mahashivratri. He said such festivals are essence of the culture of the State and encourage people of different communities to come closer to each other.
Chairman Legislative Council Amrit Malhotra greeted people of Jammu and Kashmir, particularly Kashmiri Pandits, on the eve of Mahashivratri. The Council of Ministers also greeted people on Mahashivratri.

Lastupdate on : Sat, 9 Mar 2013 21:30:00 Makkah time
Lastupdate on : Sat, 9 Mar 2013 18:30:00 GMT
Lastupdate on : Sun, 10 Mar 2013 00:00:00 IST