The festival of Mahashivratri is being marked today ie February 21 in the country today. But a day prior, Kashmiri Pandits mark it as a celebration called Herath. Mahashivratri is a day that celebrates the marriage of Lord Shiva and Pravati, it is known as the "Great Night of Shiva." The celebration of Mahashivratri is a little different in the state of Jammu and Kashmir, where Kashmir Pandit community mark it as Herath. This festive observance is celebrated by them on Trayodashi in the month of Phalguna (February–March) and not on Chaturdashi with the rest of the country. So as Mahashivratri is being marked today, Herath 2020 was celebrated last evening. Pictures of Herath puja and food items prepared for the day, along with greetings of Herath Poshte have been shared on Twitter. Mahashivratri 2020 Wishes and Messages Take Over Twitter: Netizens Exchange Lord Shiva Images and Quotes to Send Greetings of This Auspicious Festival.

The main reason for the difference in the days is said to be because the celebratory rituals of Lord Shiva’s festival begin a full fortnight before. They culminate on the night of Herath. The name of this festival is derived from the Sanskrit word ‘Hararatri’ the ‘Night of Hara’ (another name of Shiva). Special offerings of foods and sweets are prepared to celebrate this day and please Lord Shiva. On Herath 2020, PM Narendra Modi also extended his wishes to the people celebrating it in Jammu and Kashmir. A lot of people also shared the pictures with wishes of Herath Poshte on social media.

Check Some Wishes and Images of Herath 2020 Celebrations:

Herath Puja

Herath Mubarak to Everyone

Special Food of Herath Celebrations

Herath Poshte Puja

Blessings of Lord Shiva

Check PM Narendra Modi's Wish on Herath:

Kashmiri Pandits celebrate Herath as Bhairavotsava one day before. Tantric rituals are performed on this day and some people even keep a fast.  Special dishes are cooked as sacrificial food. After offering to the deity, families consume it together.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Feb 21, 2020 09:08 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).