Tulmulla, Jun 22: Thousands of devotees, including Kashmiri Pandits from across the country, gathered at the Ragnya Devi Temple in Tulmulla village of Ganderbal district on Monday to celebrate the annual Kheer Bhawani Mela on the occasion of Jyeshta Ashtami.
Elaborate security arrangements were put in place around the shrine and along the approach roads to ensure the peaceful conduct of the festival. Devotees, carrying rose petals and chanting hymns, offered prayers, milk and kheer (rice pudding) at the sacred spring inside the temple complex, seeking peace, harmony and prosperity in the Kashmir Valley.
The water of the sacred spring, traditionally believed to indicate the future of the Valley through its changing colours, remained clean and milky white this year, which devotees considered an auspicious sign.
Many devotees appreciated the arrangements made by the administration and said they felt safe throughout the pilgrimage. They also prayed for lasting peace in the Valley and the dignified return of the displaced Kashmiri Pandit community.
Devotees lauded the support extended by the local Muslim community, describing the annual mela as a symbol of communal harmony and Kashmiriyat.
Deputy Commissioner Ganderbal Jatin Kishore said all necessary arrangements had been made to ensure a smooth and comfortable pilgrimage for the devotees. (Agencies)
