Ganderbal: The annual Mela Kheer Bhawani, celebrated on the eighth day of the lunar fortnight of the Hindu month of Jyestha, was observed with remarkable religious fervor and communal harmony at the revered shrine of Mata Kheer Bhawani in Tulmulla, Ganderbal.
Thousands of devotees, predominantly Kashmiri Pandits, thronged the sacred temple of Goddess Ragnya Devi to offer prayers and participate in traditional rituals. The temple complex, adorned with vibrant decorations and nestled under centuries-old Chinar trees, witnessed the offering of milk and kheer to the sacred spring—a key ritual associated with the festival.
This year’s celebration stood out for the strong display of unity between Kashmiri Muslims and Pandits. Locals from the Muslim community warmly welcomed the devotees and contributed by setting up stalls offering puja items, flowers, food, and refreshments, reinforcing the spirit of brotherhood. The event not only symbolized religious devotion but also provided an economic boost to the local community.
The district administration had made elaborate arrangements to facilitate the smooth conduct of the mela. Medical camps, sanitation facilities, and security checkpoints were in place to ensure the comfort and safety of the pilgrims. SSP Ganderbal, Khalil Poswal, extended his greetings to the Kashmiri Pandit community and the residents of Ganderbal, praying for lasting peace and communal harmony.
This year witnessed a larger turnout than previous years, with emotional scenes of reunions between Pandit families and their Muslim neighbors evoking a shared sense of nostalgia and hope. The sacred spring, believed to reflect the goddess’s mood through changes in water color, continued to be a major spiritual draw.
In a significant show of solidarity, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha visited the temple and paid obeisance. His visit underscored the administration’s commitment to preserving the region’s cultural and spiritual heritage. Several prominent political leaders also visited the shrine, including Tarun Chugh, National General Secretary of the Bharatiya Janata Party; Dr. Farooq Abdullah, Former Chief Minister; Mehbooba Mufti, former Chief Minister and PDP President; Sunil Sharma, Leader of Opposition; and Tariq Hameed Karra, J&K Congress President.
Their collective presence highlighted the importance of the festival in the socio-political and cultural narrative of Jammu and Kashmir, further reinforcing messages of unity and interfaith harmony.
As emotional prayers and festive celebrations concluded, Mela Kheer Bhawani stood as a beacon of hope—celebrating resilience, shared history, and the timeless spirit of Kashmiriyat.
