Ganderbal, June 22, 2026- Hundreds of Kashmiri Pandits from across Jammu and Kashmir and various parts of the country gathered at the revered Mata Kheer Bhawani Temple in Tulmulla village of Ganderbal district on Monday to celebrate the annual Kheer Bhawani Mela on the auspicious occasion of Jyeshtha Ashtami.
The historic shrine of Ragnya Devi, popularly known as Mata Kheer Bhawani, witnessed a large influx of devotees who arrived early in the morning to participate in religious rituals and seek the blessings of the deity. The annual mela holds immense spiritual and cultural significance for the Kashmiri Pandit community and is one of the most important religious events in Kashmir.
Nestled amidst majestic chinar trees in the heart of Tulmulla, the temple complex was adorned for the occasion and echoed with devotional chants and hymns. Devotees, many carrying rose petals and traditional offerings, walked barefoot towards the sanctum sanctorum to pay obeisance and participate in special prayers.
Men, women, and children from different regions of the country joined the celebrations, reaffirming their deep-rooted connection with the centuries-old shrine. The atmosphere was marked by devotion, faith, and a sense of community as worshippers offered prayers for peace, prosperity, and communal harmony.
Authorities had made elaborate arrangements to ensure the smooth conduct of the mela. A multi-layer security grid was established around the temple complex and along the routes leading to the shrine. Security personnel were deployed in large numbers to maintain law and order and facilitate the movement of devotees.
In addition to security measures, the administration put in place various facilities, including medical aid, drinking water, transportation, and sanitation services, to assist pilgrims attending the annual event.
The Kheer Bhawani Mela is celebrated every year on Jyeshtha Ashtami, attracting thousands of devotees who consider the shrine one of the holiest places of worship for Kashmiri Pandits. The sacred spring within the temple complex is believed to hold special religious significance, and devotees often observe changes in its color as a divine omen.
As prayers and rituals continued throughout the day, the annual gathering once again showcased the enduring faith and cultural heritage of the Kashmiri Pandit community, while reinforcing the message of peace, unity, and spiritual devotion in the Valley.
