Ganderbal, May 30: Preparations are in full swing for the annual Kheer Bhawani Mela, one of the most revered religious events for the Kashmiri Pandit community. Scheduled to be held on June 3, the mela will take place at the historic Kheer Bhawani temple located in Tulla Mulla village of central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district.
Dedicated to Goddess Ragnya Devi, the temple draws thousands of devotees each year, particularly from the Kashmiri Pandit diaspora across India. The event is a symbol of spiritual devotion and cultural heritage, offering a deeply emotional and religious experience for the community. Officials from the Dharmarth Trust, which manages the temple affairs, in coordination with the district administration, are making elaborate arrangements to ensure a hassle-free experience for the pilgrims. “We expect the usual rush this year,” said a spokesperson from the Dharmarth Trust. “All necessary facilities including security, medical assistance, sanitation, and transport are being put in place.” Local residents have also stepped in to assist with the preparations, highlighting the communal harmony that marks the occasion. Volunteers are helping to set up tents, food stalls, and accommodation for the visiting pilgrims. The annual mela is not just a religious gathering but also a moment of homecoming for many displaced Kashmiri Pandits, who see the visit as a reaffirmation of their identity and spiritual connection to their ancestral homeland. To ensure the safety of pilgrims, security has been tightened in and around the temple complex. As the sacred day nears, the atmosphere at Kheer Bhawani is charged with devotion and anticipation, with thousands preparing to converge in unity and prayer at the revered shrine.
