Srinagar, March 29: The Jogishwari Mandir Trust Rainawari, Srinagar, Saturday made a fervent appeal to the Jammu and Kashmir Union Territory Government for the immediate restoration of the boundary wall and fencing of the ancient Gopi Tirath at Brein, Nishat, Srinagar. The sacred site suffered significant damage due to powerful winds that swept across the valley on Thursday.
Gopi Tirath holds immense religious and historical significance for followers of Kashmir Shaiv Dar-shan. The complex, which includes a sacred spring believed to possess healing properties, along with two ancient temples, has long been a target of encroachment. The Trust has repeatedly raised con-cerns about illegal land occupation with the authorities. Since the exodus of the Kashmiri Pandit community in 1989-90, this Shaivite heritage site has faced neglect and threats to its sanctity. The Jogishwari Mandir Trust (Regd.), Ghat Jogi Lanker, Rainawari, is the rightful custodian of the property and remains committed to its preservation and revival.
Dr Mahesh Kaul, President of the Jogishwari Mandir Trust, urged the Lieutenant Governor and Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir to take immediate steps to secure the site. He stressed the urgent need for reconstructing the damaged boundary wall and fencing to prevent further encroachments and safeguard the sanctity of the religious site. In a statement, Dr Kaul highlighted the spiritual and cultural importance of Gopi Tirath, stating: “This sacred site has been a centre of Shaiva Tantra and Trika philosophy for centuries, serving as the spiritual abode of great Shaivite scholars and practi-tioners. The restoration of Gopi Tirath is not only crucial for preserving Kashmir’s Shaivite heritage but also for reinstating the faith of the Kashmiri Pandit community in reviving their sacred places.” On the occasion of Navreh and the First Navratra, the Trust expressed hope that the J&K Government would take swift action to restore the Gopi Tirath complex, ensuring its protection from encroach-ment and environmental damage. The Jogishwari Mandir Trust has also urged the government to recognise Gopi Tirath as a Shaiva Tantra centre and support its development as an important cultural and religious landmark. As efforts continue to protect Kashmir’s rich spiritual heritage, the Trust’s appeal serves as a reminder of the urgent need to safeguard historic religious sites that have with-stood centuries of change.
