Anantnag, July 30: Hundreds of devout members from the Kashmiri Pandit community thronged the historic Martand Sun Temple on Sunday to observe the Banmass Mela in Mattan area of South Kashmir’s Anantnag District.
The Devotees offered prayers and paid homage to their ancestors at the historic Martand Sun Temple.
Kashmiri Pandits from various pockets of the valley visited this historic place and performed various traditional rituals, offered prayers, lit bonfires, and engaged in cultural activities.
An elderly Kashmiri Pandit Mohan Lal told Rising Kashmir that Banmaas Festival is a significant cultural and religious event celebrated by the Kashmiri Pandit community in the region of Jammu and Kashmir
He said that Banmaas holds great importance in their calendar and is observed with enthusiasm and reverence.
“Banmaas festival is an occasion for spiritual reflection, unity, and renewal of family bonds,” he said.
The devotees also performed “Pind Daan” which holds significant importance in the Hindu tradition, as it is believed to aid the souls of the departed in attaining eternal peace.
Expressing their devotion and love for their ancestors, many devotees were seen reciting ancient scriptures and seeking divine blessings.
One of the devotees, Karan Lal said, “This is a moment of great significance for our community. It allows us to connect with our ancestors and seek blessings for their eternal peace. The Martand Sun Temple holds a special place in our hearts, and we are grateful to be able to perform the ‘pind daan’ here.”
Another devotee, Ramesh Kapoor, said, “The Banmass Mela is a time of deep reflection and remembrance. We gather here to remember our loved ones who have passed away and pray for their souls to find solace and liberation.”
Devotees also thanked local administration, Muslim community for their support in performing this festival.
“I express my heartfelt gratitude to the local community for their support. The Muslim brethren have been a great source of encouragement throughout the four years I have been involved in this endeavor, and I am genuinely thankful to them. Additionally, I extend my thanks to the district administration for their valuable assistance and cooperation,” Ashok Sidha, said.
