Ganderbal, Jun 03 (KNO): The annual Kheer Bhawani Mela was celebrated with religious fervour and cultural unity at the historic Mata Ragnya Devi temple in Tulmulla, Ganderbal. Thousands of devotees, primarily from the Kashmiri Pandit community, thronged the temple to offer prayers and perform age-old rituals in a vibrant atmosphere underscored by communal harmony.
Set amidst towering Chinar trees, the temple saw an emotional homecoming of Kashmiri Pandits from across the country.
According to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), many of them had returned to the valley after decades to participate in the auspicious Jyeshtha Ashtami celebrations, marked by offerings of milk and kheer to the sacred spring.
“This day is not just about rituals—it's about rekindling old ties and healing wounds through faith and togetherness,” said Vijay Kumar, a devotee from Delhi who had returned to attend the festival after many years.
Local Muslims played an active role in organising the festival, setting up stalls for ritual offerings and assisting pilgrims. Their warm participation stood as a powerful symbol of Kashmir’s inclusive spirit.
“We wait for this festival each year—not just to earn a livelihood, but to welcome our Pandit brothers and sisters back home,” said Abdul Rahim, a local shopkeeper.
For many returning Pandits, the warmth was deeply moving. “I had tears in my eyes seeing Muslim neighbours waiting to welcome us. This is the Kashmir I remember,” said Sunita Bhat, who came from Jammu with her family.
The district administration ensured smooth conduct of the event, deploying security forces, arranging medical aid, and maintaining public services. The event saw participation and support from various political and social groups, reflecting a broader message of unity.
Heartfelt greetings poured in from leaders across the region. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha tweeted, “Heartiest greetings to the people, especially Kashmiri Pandit brothers and sisters, on the auspicious occasion of Jyeshtha Ashtami. May the divine blessings of Mata Kheer Bhawani continue to illuminate our paths, ushering in peace, happiness, and prosperity for all.”
Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kashmir also extended greetings on social media, wishing peace, spiritual strength, and togetherness on the blessed occasion.
As the sacred spring shimmered beneath the ancient temple, devotees departed with renewed hope—a hope for peace, reconciliation, and a return to shared roots
Apart from LG Sinha, several prominent leaders, including National Conference president Dr Farooq Abdullah, People's Democratic Party (PDP) Mehbooba Mufti, J&K Congress president Tariq Karra, senior BJP leaders Tarun Chugh, Ashok Koul and Leader of Opposition Sunil Sharma paid obeisance at the revered temple. The visit underscored a spirit of unity and reverence at the holy shrine, which saw a large turnout of devotees—(KNO)