Anantnag (Jammu and Kashmir), May 10 (ANI): Promoting communal harmony and brotherhood, Hindus and Muslims celebrated 'Malmaas', the extra month in the Hindu calendar, at the famous Martand Teerth Shrine in Jammu and Kashmir's Anantnag District on Monday.

Kashmiri Hindus expressed their joy over the involvement of both Muslims and Sikhs.

"After 20 years, I have seen such rush at the temple which used to be there earlier. I am feeling very happy as local Muslims and Sikhs are with us," said B L Koul, a Kashmiri Hindu.

Kashmiri Hindus used to visit this temple earlier, but with the advent of militancy in the state, many chose to migrate to more peaceful environs.

"Malmaas comes after every two-and-half years. To attend this festival, people come from Jammu and Delhi. This time the festival was celebrated very well," claimed Kamaljeet Kachru, one of the organizers.

"After the migration of the Kashmiri Hindus, this is the first time I have seen this festival being organized. These Hindu brothers of ours are welcome," said Altaf Ahmad, a local of Mattan.

"We want them (Hindus) to come back, so that we can live with brotherhood and harmony. We are happy that they came here and celebrated this festival of Malmaas," he added. (ANI)