Srinagar: Jammu and Kashmir political leaders, including former chief ministers Omar Abdullah and Mehbooba Mufti, extended their greetings to Kashmiri Pandits on the festival of Mahashivratri on Wednesday. Advisors to Lieutenant Governor, Farooq Khan, Rajeev Rai Bhatnagar and Baseer Khan have extended warm greetings to the people of Jammu and Kashmir on the auspicious festival of Mahashivratri-celebrated as ‘Hairath’ by Kashmiri Pandits.
Abdullah, who is also the National Conference (NC) vice-president, tweeted, “Herath mubarak to Kashmiri Pandits everywhere. Have a blessed day.”
Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) president Mufti also took to Twitter to extend wishes on the festival.
“Herath Mubarak and may all your prayers be answered. Kashmir misses your presence & is incomplete without you,” she said.
Jammu and Kashmir Apni Party (JKAP) leader Altaf Bukhari, in a statement, said that Mahashivratri holds a “special place” in the history, culture and pluralistic ethos of the region.
“The fervour with which Mahashivratri is celebrated here is a testimony to the impeccable communal harmony in Jammu and Kashmir. I warmly greet our Hindu brethren, especially the Pandit Community, on this auspicious occasion. I pray that on this sacred occasion, may peace, prosperity and progress prevail in our region,” he said.
Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee (JKPCC) president Ghulam Ahmad Mir also conveyed greetings to Kashmiri Pandits
Advisor Farooq Khan in his message said that this festival has both religious and cultural importance as the day is celebrated by the people of all shades and represents the composite culture of our society.
Advisor Rajeev Rai Bhatnagar in his greetings maintained that this day renews resolve of people of J&K towards upholding the values of peace, brotherhood and communal harmony which are hallmarks of the rich culture here.
Advisor Baseer Khan in his message said that this festival symbolizes the values of devotion, brotherhood, mutual existence and harmony, which are the hallmarks of our glorious cultural ethos.
The Advisors hoped that the auspicious day will usher the Jammu and Kashmir in new era of peace and development and further strengthen bonds of brotherhood among the people.

Reader correspondent