Examiner Bureau | Ganderbal:
Thousands of devotees, predominantly Kashmiri Pandits from different parts of the country and abroad, gathered at the revered Mata Kheer Bhawani shrine in Tulmulla on Monday as the annual Kheer Bhawani Mela commenced on the auspicious occasion of Jyeshtha Ashtami.
The shrine complex echoed with chants of “Bhawani Mata Ki Jai” as devotees participated in the religious festivities with deep faith and enthusiasm. This year’s gathering witnessed a significantly higher turnout compared to previous years, reflecting the enduring spiritual and cultural significance of the pilgrimage.
By sunrise, the temple premises and the sacred spring were packed with devotees offering traditional kheer—a preparation of milk and rice—to Goddess Ragnya Devi. Pilgrims had travelled from Srinagar, Jammu, Delhi and several other parts of the country to take part in the annual event.
Long queues were witnessed throughout the day for darshan, while volunteers and security personnel worked in coordination to ensure the smooth movement of devotees within the shrine complex.
“This is our annual homecoming. Tulmulla feels like family. The support and hospitality extended by local residents make the pilgrimage even more special,” said Ramesh Koul, a devotee who had travelled from Jammu.
Authorities put in place elaborate security arrangements for the occasion. Personnel from the Jammu and Kashmir Police (JKP), Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) and Traffic Police were deployed across the area, while CCTV cameras and drone surveillance were used to monitor the large gathering and maintain security.
One of the most notable aspects of the annual mela was the spirit of communal harmony displayed by local residents. Several Muslim families opened their homes to visiting pilgrims, established free tea and refreshment stalls, and assisted authorities in managing the crowds.
“Our forefathers have protected and respected this shrine for generations. Kheer Bhawani represents the true essence of Kashmiriyat and our shared cultural heritage,” said Bilal Ahmad, a resident of Tulmulla who volunteered to serve water to devotees.
The annual festival continues to serve as a symbol of faith, tradition and communal coexistence, drawing thousands of devotees to one of Kashmir’s most revered religious sites.
