Sat Sharma, a prominent leader of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), visited the revered Kheer Bhawani temple in Tulmulla, Ganderbal, on Sunday to pay his respects. The visit comes ahead of the annual Kheer Bhawani Mela, a significant religious gathering for Kashmiri Pandits.
Sharma, who also holds the position of Jammu and Kashmir BJP President and is a Member of Parliament for Rajya Sabha, participated in the visit to offer prayers at the historic shrine. The Kheer Bhawani temple, dedicated to Goddess Ragnya Devi, is one of the most important religious sites for Kashmiri Hindus.
The annual Kheer Bhawani Mela is scheduled to be held on June 22, 2026. Preparations are underway to ensure that all necessary facilities are in place for the large number of devotees expected to attend. This includes arrangements for sanitation, uninterrupted power and water supply, healthcare, security, and transportation.
The Kheer Bhawani temple is renowned for its sacred spring, the waters of which are believed to change color, reflecting the future of the region. Legend has it that a black hue signifies an impending disaster. The temple’s history dates back centuries, with significant contributions to its construction and renovation made by Maharaja Pratap Singh and Maharaja Hari Singh of Jammu and Kashmir.
The Kheer Bhawani Mela is a symbol of religious harmony and attracts pilgrims from across the country. It holds particular significance for the Kashmiri Pandit community, many of whom were displaced from the valley in the 1990s but continue to hold deep faith in the goddess. The Mela is seen as a moment of spiritual rejuvenation and a connection to their heritage.
During his visit, Sat Sharma reportedly reviewed the arrangements for the upcoming Mela and directed concerned officials to ensure all facilities are adequately provided for the convenience of the devotees. The government has emphasized its commitment to facilitating pilgrims and preserving the spiritual ethos of such revered sites.
The Kheer Bhawani shrine, located in Tulmulla village, approximately 26 kilometers from Srinagar, is a significant pilgrimage destination. The annual festival, observed during Jyeshtha Ashtami, is a major event for devotees who gather to offer prayers and seek blessings from Goddess Ragnya Devi.
The Chenab Times News Desk