Srinagar, Feb. 27 -- Maha Shivratri was observed with religious fervor by Kashmiri Pandits and Hindus and a large number of devotees thronged the Shankaracharya temple in Srinagar to pay obeisance on the occasion.Maha Shivratri is locally known as Herath and as part of their unique traditions, Kashmiri Pandits observe nightlong prayers and offer walnuts, which are placed in a watuk (earthen pot) as a sacred ritual.Despite the inclement weather, tourists and devotees, including men, women, and children, patiently queued up along the stairs of the Shankaracharya Temple, perched on a hill overlooking the picturesque Dal Lake.Authorities in Srinagar had made adequate arrangements to facilitate smooth and hassle-free visits for devotees at the...