Pilgrims Throng Kashmir's Kheer Bhawani Mela, Undeterred by Regional Tensions
Thousands of pilgrims are converging at the revered Kheer Bhawani Temple in Tulmulla, Ganderbal district of Kashmir, for the annual Mela starting June 3, 2025. This significant religious gathering is proceeding with enthusiasm, undeterred by recent terror incidents in the region. The large turnout demonstrates the devotees' deep faith and resilience, highlighting a vibrant cultural tradition amidst security challenges in the Kashmir Valley.
Unpacked:
The Kheer Bhawani Temple is a spiritual and cultural center for Kashmiri Pandits. It symbolizes their deep religious ties to Kashmir and has been a pilgrimage site for over a thousand years. The annual mela is a key tradition, and even after the exodus of the 1990s, many Kashmiri Pandits continue to visit, marking their enduring connection to their homeland.
Security at the Kheer Bhawani mela is robust, with contingents like the CRPF (Central Reserve Police Force) deployed at the temple complex for years. These measures have been strengthened due to past threats and recent incidents, ensuring the safety of pilgrims attending the festival in a region with ongoing security challenges.
According to legend, Goddess Ragnya Devi appeared at the site after leaving Lanka, eventually making Kashmir her abode. The temple is built over a sacred spring, which is believed to have been discovered after the goddess appeared in a devotee’s dream. The spring’s mention is found in ancient texts like the Rajatarangini.
The color of the spring water at Kheer Bhawani Temple is believed to be an omen. Milky or white water is seen as auspicious, while black or reddish hues are thought to warn of impending disaster. This phenomenon, though unexplained scientifically, is deeply respected by devotees and adds to the temple’s mystical allure.