Ganderbal, June 02: On the eve of the annual Kheer Bhawani Mela, Tulmulla village in central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district witnessed a large gathering of devotees, mainly from the Kashmiri Pandit community, at the revered shrine of Mata Kheer Bhawani. The event was marked by a strong display of religious devotion and communal harmony.
Senior officials, including Secretary Health and Medical Education Dr. Syed Abid Rasheed Shah and Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Vijay Kumar Bidhuri, visited the temple complex to oversee the arrangements and ensure a smooth and safe pilgrimage for all attendees.
Speaking to reporters during the visit, Dr. Abid Rasheed Shah emphasised that comprehensive healthcare facilities have been put in place in coordination with the district administration. “Round-the-clock health services, including emergency care units, first aid stations, and ambulances, have been stationed at key locations around the shrine. Sufficient medical staff and essential medicines have been deployed to handle any situation,” he said.
Divisional Commissioner Vijay Kumar Bidhuri also reviewed the overall preparedness and directed officials to ensure seamless coordination among departments. “Proper arrangements for traffic regulation, power and water supply, sanitation, and security have been made to facilitate the devotees,” he noted, after inspecting the site.
The annual mela, dedicated to Goddess Ragnya Devi, is not just a religious event but a powerful symbol of Kashmir’s composite culture and age-old tradition of communal harmony.
As the sacred temple premises echoed with bhajans and chants, devotees expressed deep satisfaction over the facilities provided. “We are thankful to the administration for the free services, cleanliness, and the welcoming environment,” said one pilgrim, overwhelmed with emotion.
Adding a heartfelt layer to the occasion, local Muslim residents were seen greeting the returning Pandit devotees with flowers and warm embraces. “This is not just a religious journey, but an emotional homecoming,” said another devotee.
“When we reached the temple, Muslims welcomed us with flowers and smiles. It shows that the bond of brotherhood is still alive.”
The temple, set amidst tall Chinar trees, was bathed in devotional light as pilgrims lit lamps and offered kheer (sweet rice pudding) and milk to the goddess, praying for peace, prosperity, and unity.
The Kheer Bhawani Mela, held annually on the auspicious day of Zyestha Ashtami, continues to be a poignant reminder of Kashmir’s syncretic spirit, bringing people together in celebration and reverence.
