Ganderbal, Mar 08 (KNO): Amidst a jubilant atmosphere, Maha Shivratri, locally known as ‘Herath’, was celebrated with great enthusiasm at the Kheer Bhawani Temple in the Tulmullah area of Ganderbal district.
Devotees, including Kashmiri Pandits, gathered at the temple to pay homage to Mata Ragniya Devi, fondly known as Mata Kheer Bhawani. The temple premises exuded a festive aura as devotees engaged in special prayers, seeking peace and prosperity for the region.
Sonu, a devotee from Jammu, told the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) that he and his family are moved by the atmosphere around them. "It reminds us of our past. I have been coming here since childhood before the exodus. I am seeing the same zeal among people. There is a lot of excitement," he said.
Another Kashmiri Pandit said they were overwhelmed by the greeting messages received from Muslims at the temples across the valley.
They said authorities had made elaborate arrangements for the pilgrims.
The devotees were seen offering milk, ghee, bel leaves and water to Shivlingam and chanting Vedic mantras for peace and the well-being of humanity.
Deputy Commissioner Ganderbal, Shyambir, also visited the temple and offered prayers there. He extended his wishes for the well-being of all—(KNO)