Ganderbal, June 3: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Tuesday said that a significantly higher number of devotees participated in this year’s annual Kheer Bhawani Mela, held at the revered shrine of Mata Kheer Bhawani in Tullamulla, in central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district.
Speaking to the media after paying obeisance at the shrine on the occasion of Jyeshtha Ashtami, LG Sinha said, “On this auspicious day, I prayed for the well-being of all citizens and for peace and prosperity in Jammu and Kashmir.” He emphasised the spiritual importance of the Mela and expressed satisfaction over the enthusiastic turnout, especially in light of the recent terror attack in Pahalgam on April 22.
Terming the large gathering a “positive development,” Sinha highlighted the collective resilience and unwavering faith of the people. “Despite recent challenges, a good number of devotees have come to the temple to attend the Mela, which reflects their unshakable devotion,” he said.
The Lieutenant Governor also noted that the administration had made elaborate arrangements to ensure the smooth conduct of the event. “We have provided all necessary facilities for the pilgrims, including security, sanitation, and medical support,” he said. He added that work on the Yatri Niwas is progressing well and is expected to be completed before next year’s Mela.
On the upcoming Amarnath Yatra, LG Sinha confirmed that all preparations, including security arrangements, have been finalised. He urged pilgrims from across the country to participate, assuring them of a safe and well-managed pilgrimage experience.
During his visit, the Lieutenant Governor also interacted with a large number of pilgrims, particularly members of the Kashmiri Pandit community. He reiterated the deep spiritual and emotional significance of the Kheer Bhawani Mela for devotees across India and reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to ensuring a safe, peaceful, and fulfilling pilgrimage for all.
Atal Dulloo, Chief Secretary; Vijay Kumar Bidhuri, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir; VK Birdi, IGP Kashmir; Jatin Kishore, Deputy Commissioner Ganderbal; senior officials of the Civil and Police Administration and pilgrims in large numbers were present on the occasion.
