Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik and National Conference leaders Sunday greeted people ahead of the auspicious occasion of Mahashivratri, which is celebrated by Kashmiri pandits as 'Hairath'.

A Raj Bhavan spokesperson said Malik wished people a happy 'Mahashivratri' and 'Hairath', and prayed for peace, progress and prosperity in the state.

National Conference president Farooq Abdullah and vice president Omar Abdullah also greeted people on the auspicious occasion and expressed hope that the festival will be celebrated in true spirit of the composite culture of Jammu and Kashmir.

In his message to the people. Farooq Abdullah said the festival stresses on the values of piety, devotion, mutual love and harmony, which are cornerstones of "our great civilization".

"Such occasions strengthen bonds of amity and secular temperament among all sections of the society," he said.

Greeting people on the occasion, Omar Abdullah expressed hope that the tradition of brotherhood, love and amity would continue to guide the people, which is imperative for harmonious growth of the society.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)