Maha Shivratri, one of the most significant Hindu festivals, is celebrated with great devotion across India in honour of Lord Shiva. Observed through fasting, prayers, and mantra chanting, it is a time for seeking divine blessings. However, in the region of Jammu and Kashmir, Maha Shivratri holds a distinct identity and is revered as 'Herath' by the Kashmiri Pandit community.
What is Herath?
Herath, meaning the 'Night of Hara (Shiva),' is a grand three-week long festival for Kashmiri Pandits. The name ‘Herath’ is derived from the Sanskrit words "Hara" (another name for Lord Shiva) and "Ratri" (night). Over time, 'Hararatri' gradually transformed into 'Herath' in the local dialect.
Beginning from the 13th night of Phalgun (February-March) until the new moon, it marks the unity of divinity, consciousness, and feminine energy that leads to creation. It also celebrates the sacred union of Goddess Parvati and Lord Shiva, similar to Maha Shivratri.
Rituals of Herath
The celebration of Herath begins a day before Shivratri with elaborate rituals performed in Kashmiri Pandit households. The main worship, known as 'Vatuk Pooja,' is conducted using a steel vessel (Kalash) filled with water and walnuts, symbolising the four Vedas. After thorough purification of the home, the Kalash is placed in a sacred space, and prayers are offered by the family. The priest conducting the rituals is honoured with traditional offerings and a feast.
The day following Shiva Chaturdashi is known as 'Salam,' a unique tradition reflecting the historical unity of Pandits and Muslims in the Kashmir Valley. On the fifteenth day, called 'Dooni-Mavas,' walnuts are distributed among family members as a sacred offering.
Throughout the festival, Kashmiri Pandits greet one another with the phrase 'Herath Poshte,' extending warm wishes for the occasion. Many devotees visit temples, with the grandest gathering taking place at the Shankaracharya Temple overlooking Dal Lake in Srinagar.
Other traditions
Each family has its own set of customs related to Herath. One of the most cherished traditions involves gifting young members of the family money, known as ‘hearth expenditure,’ allowing them to purchase items of their choice. This practice signifies the importance of the household and its spiritual warmth.
Walnuts, considered sacred, are distributed as prasad after the puja. Additionally, rice bread is offered to the girls of the house, as well as during the symbolic wedding processions of Shiva and Parvati.
Unlike the widespread Hindu tradition of fasting on Maha Shivratri, most Kashmiri Pandits prepare and consume fish and mutton as part of the celebration, with only a few following strict vegetarian customs.
Maha Shivratri | Picture via Dolls of India Art Store
About Maha Shivratri 2025
In 2025, Maha Shivratri will be observed on Wednesday, 26 February. The most significant puja, Nishita Kaal Puja, is scheduled between 12:09 AM and 12:59 AM on 27 February, lasting for 50 minutes. The completion of fasting and rituals, known as Shivaratri Parana, can be performed between 6:48 AM and 8:54 AM on 27 February.
