Kashmir Celebrates Mahashivratri

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Mahashivratri -- Celebrations in Kashmir

In Kashmir, since the majority of Kashmiri Pandits are followers of

Shiva, Mahashivratri festival is observed for fifteen days beginning

with parva of the waning moon to parva of waxing moon. Shivratri is

most scrupulously observed by the Kashmiri Pandits.

Much before the festival houses are cleaned. New clothes, utensils

and other household things are brought. One new dress for the main

puja is set aside. They make thorough preparations and collect

eatables, fruits and sweets. Each day or a group of days has a

special name and religious function which include social performances

also.

 

The Shivratri puja is known as "vatuk puja". On the 11th day, puja

room is decorated with all pictures of gods and goddess. The 12th day

is the day of Ganesh puja. In this puja a pot filled with Ganga jal

(water ) is also worshipped.

 

The 13th day is the actual day of Mahashivratri. The thirteenth day

of this festival in Kashmir is known by the name of HERATH which is

celebrated with indescribable zest and joy

The Kashmiris believe that the marriage of Shiva and Parvati was

celebrated on the day of Herath. Two earthen pitchers filled with

nuts soaked in water and flowers represent Siva and Shakti. Then a

definite number of small earthen pots containing a nut and water

symbolise the Ghanas and other deities. These pitchers and pots,

collectively are called Vatuk. There is a set form of worship in each

or in a group of Kashmiri Pandits' homes. After the fast and worship,

prasad is taken about mid-night.

On the 14th day, the daughters and son-in-law are invited by the

parents. It is a day of grand feast. This day is similar to Diwali.

money or presents are given to younger ones. People greet each other

and send sweets and prasad. This day is known as Dyra Daham.

 

The fifteenth day heralds the end of the festival. All the earthen

pots are collected and immersed in the nearest river or lake. Rotis

are made of rice flour and soaked walnuts are distributed as prasad

to the members of the community. In the evening they play local fire

works called 'Ja-tun-tun'. Thus comes to an end the Kashmiri Pandit

version of Herath, the Mahashivratri of India.