Syed Irfan Fazil / Saleem Wani
Ganderbal | June 3, 2025: On the sacred occasion of Jyeshtha Ashtami, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha visited the historic Mata Kheer Bhawani Temple in Tulmulla, Ganderbal, where he offered prayers and extended warm greetings to devotees from across the country.
The Lieutenant Governor prayed for peace, prosperity, and collective well-being of the people of Jammu and Kashmir and interacted with the large number of pilgrims, particularly members of the Kashmiri Pandit community, for whom this day holds deep spiritual and emotional significance.
First Major Gathering in Ganderbal Post-Pahalgam Event
This year’s Mata Kheer Bhawani Mela is being seen as the first major religious congregation in Ganderbal after the successful gathering in Pahalgam, highlighting a renewed momentum in religious tourism and cultural revival in the region. The peaceful and vibrant conduct of the Mela is a testimony to the improving situation and the administration’s efforts to facilitate pilgrim movement and spiritual gatherings.
Chief Minister’s Earlier Inspection Visit
Just days ahead of the festival, the Chief Minister also visited Tulmulla to inspect the arrangements at the Kheer Bhawani shrine and Bawan area. The CM reviewed security, sanitation, water supply, and other essential services, ensuring all systems were in place for the smooth conduct of the festival.
Communal Harmony and Political Participation
In a remarkable display of communal harmony, local Muslims actively participated in welcoming the Kashmiri Pandit pilgrims. They extended support in logistics, hospitality, and shared the festive spirit with warmth and grace.
Leaders from various political parties also marked their presence at the shrine, expressing solidarity with the Pandit community and emphasizing the importance of Kashmir’s shared cultural legacy. Their presence sent out a message of unity and support for peaceful coexistence.
Devotees in Thousands
Thousands of devotees thronged the temple on Jyeshtha Ashtami, taking part in the annual rituals and prayers. Emotional scenes were witnessed as many Kashmiri Pandit families visited the shrine for the first time in years, amid chants, traditional offerings, and a sense of spiritual homecoming.
Administrative Readiness
The district administration of Ganderbal, along with security agencies and volunteers, made elaborate arrangements to ensure the safety and comfort of the pilgrims. Medical aid stations, drinking water facilities, sanitation units, and transport services were all put in place to facilitate a smooth experience.
The successful and peaceful observance of the Mela at Kheer Bhawani has sent a powerful message of communal peace, administrative efficiency, and the revival of cultural and religious tourism in the Kashmir Valley.
— Gulistan News
