Why in News?
Herath (or Herath Poshte) is currently in the news as the Kashmiri Pandit community celebrated this sacred festival with traditional fervour. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other national leaders extended their greetings, highlighting it as a symbol of the community's rich heritage and communal harmony.
About
- Prime Ministerial Greetings: PM Modi greeted the community with the phrase "Herath Poshte!" (meaning "may there be abundance/blooming"), praying for wellness and success.
- Celebrations in Kashmir: Large gatherings were witnessed at the historic Shankaracharya Temple in Srinagar, which was illuminated for the occasion.
- Symbol of Harmony: The festival was highlighted for its "Salaam" tradition, where Muslim neighbours visit Pandit families to extend greetings, reinforcing the spirit of Kashmiriyat.
- Legislative Holiday: The Jammu and Kashmir government declared a holiday for Pandit employees and legislators during the ongoing Budget session to mark the occasion.
Key Features
- Significance: Known locally as the "Night of Hara" (Lord Shiva), it commemorates the divine wedding of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.
- Duration: Unlike the single-night Maha Shivratri celebrated elsewhere, Herath is a 15-day-long festival starting from Okdoh (the first day of the dark fortnight of Phalguna).
- Vatuk Pooja: The central ritual involves worshipping Vatuk Bhairav (a form of Shiva). Instead of a Linga, deities are represented by water-filled vessels (Kalash) adorned with flowers and walnuts.
- Walnuts as Prasad: Soaked walnuts (Doon) are a critical symbol of prosperity. They are kept in sacred vessels and distributed as Prasad to family and neighbours on Dooni-Mavas.
- Unique Food Traditions: Distinct from the vegetarian fasts observed in other regions, Kashmiri Pandits traditionally prepare fish and mutton dishes like Rogan Josh and Yakhni as part of the festive feast.
- Herath Kharch: Elders traditionally give monetary gifts, known as Herath Kharch, to children and younger family members.
- Salaam: The day following the main puja is called Salaam, dedicated to social visits and exchanging greetings with friends from all communities.
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