Srinagar, Feb. 26 -- Local Hindus, who are a minority in the valley, visited the Shankaracharya temple atop Zabarwan hills here early in the morning to pay obeisance to lord Shiva on the occasion also called 'Hearath' here.

Braving the chilly and wet weather conditions, devotees formed long queues to seek blessings at the revered temple, which was beautifully decorated for the festival.

The worshippers, while chanting hymns and performing rituals, expressed their devotion to lord Shiva.

Mohan, a devotee in Srinagar said Maha Shivaratri holds great significance for them. "Every year, we come here to offer prayers and seek divine blessings," he said.

Another worshipper at the shrine said the festival symbolises spiritual awakening and u...